About 477,000 people displaced in the Greater Jonglei region, following inter-communal fighting in their areas, desperately need help, according to a local official.

Gabriel Ajak Deng, the state director for Relief and Rehabilitation Commission, told Radio Tamazuj on Monday that the government agency registered about 477,000 residents who had fled their homes due to inter-communal violence since April.

 “This figure is based on assessments we have conducted since April. Currently, 4,200 people from Twic East are displaced to Bor town. Generally, there are 477,000 displaced people across Jonglei from Jalle, Makuach, Twic East, Duk, Pieri, Yuai, Likuangule, Gumuruk, Pibor, Vertet and Pochalla areas,” said Ajak.

He added, “There has been no humanitarian response except for Pieri area. The other areas have not yet given any assistance. They [displaced persons] desperately need shelter and food.”

The government official appealed to the relevant government agencies to end the ongoing conflict in the Greater Jonglei region to pave the way for humanitarian response, expressing fears that the area could witness the worst humanitarian crisis if the conflict-displaced families are not supported.

“My appeal goes to the government and the international community.  They should be able to respond to the needs of those displaced in the different counties of greater Jonglei,” he stressed.

The Greater Jonglei region is plagued by recurring intercommunal tensions involving the Dinka, Nuer and Murle communities. The cycle of violence is often accompanied by cattle raids, child abductions, and other revenge-inducing crimes.