Church leaders have evacuated dozens of orphans from Morobo to Yei in Central Equatoria State over security concerns.

The relocation of at least 105 orphan children from Rock the Desert orphanage came after recent fighting in Morobo area that left thousands displaced while the orphans were left vulnerable amid concerns that they could be raped, kidnapped or killed.

The Bishop of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in South Sudan Elias Taban says the orphans were transported under government military escort to temporarily continue with their education and receive health services in Yei town until the situation in Morobo has normalised.

He said the orphans are currently provided food but lack enough bedding and other scholastic materials.

“We managed to send trucks to rescue all the 105 children... It was not easy to carry them with all their belongings but all of them are safe and healthy and we are beginning in Yei from zero since they don’t have mattresses, bedding and other properties. But above all we thank God because all of them are in good health.”

The religious leader called on the warring parties to end their grievances through amicable dialogue so as to bring the suffering of the poor South Sudanese to an end. The orphans are currently at EPC compound in Yei.