Western Equatoria State (WES) Commissioner for Refugee Affairs Paulino Zizi Bugwa has confirmed that several Sudanese refugees had fled from Yambio’s Makpandu Camp due to hunger, poverty, and harsh living conditions.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Thursday, Bugwa said food provided to the refugees was insufficient, pushing many to leave the camp in search of better opportunities.
“The food given to the refugees is not enough. Each person receives just seven cups of grains and one cup of beans for an entire month. I raised this concern with the World Food Program (WFP), but they said they are also experiencing food shortages,” he explained.
Some refugees, Bugwa went on, have fled to Wau, Juba, and Uganda. However, he noted that a number of those who left for Uganda and Juba have since returned to Yambio due to poor living conditions in those areas.
“Some refugees went to Uganda, but they came back because life there was even harder. The number of Sudanese refugees who initially arrived in Yambio was over 2,000,” he said.
The Commissioner advised refugees in the Makpandu Camp to be patient and united, saying South Sudanese had also endured similar challenges in the past. He also cautioned them to stay away from political activities.
“I am warning you to stay away from politics and politicians. You are here as refugees, not soldiers or politicians. Leave those issues behind and focus on your safety,” Bugwa stressed.
A refugee who spoke to Radio Tamazuj on condition of anonymity said life in the camp was extremely challenging due to hunger and exposure to harsh weather.
“We are struggling with a lack of food, education, and communication services. The weather is also harsh, with strong winds and cold nights. We were told there would be schools and food, but we haven’t seen anything. The situation is very difficult,” the refugee lamented.
The refugee called on the Sudanese government to restore peace in their homeland so they can return. He also expressed gratitude to the South Sudanese government for providing them with protection.
“We are thankful to the Government of South Sudan for their support. We haven’t faced any security concerns here, but we really need more help in terms of food and other basic services,” he said.
Another refugee, Abdu Takadin, said they were facing significant challenges in the camp, including the lack of job opportunities.
“We have nowhere else to go. We were brought here after fleeing Sudan, but life here is very tough. There are no jobs, and we need more support from the government and partners to survive,” Takadin said.
The refugees continue to appeal to the South Sudanese government and the humanitarian organizations for more assistance, especially food, education, healthcare, and better living conditions.
Many remain hopeful that peace will return to Sudan so they can return to their homeland.