Hundreds of spontaneous returnees arrive in Aweil East County

AWEIL – More than 600 individuals, described as spontaneous returnees, have recently arrived in Aweil East County since November, seeking refuge from the violent conflicts in Sudan’s Western and Southern Kordofan states.

Some of the returnees recounted their harrowing experiences to Sudans Post from Rumaker Payam, situated in the remote highland areas bordering Sudan, where they have taken shelter under trees.

Mel Mel Deng, the Payam administrator, disclosed on Monday that nearly 50 people arrive daily, navigating dense forests on foot or using donkeys to traverse the border into the Payam.

He emphasized the need to report these numbers to both county and state authorities to provide support for the growing returning population.

“I appeal to authorities and humanitarian organizations to visit Rup-Aker village and witness firsthand how these individuals are struggling under the trees,” urged Mel.

He expressed concerns about the challenges faced by the elderly and young children, particularly in coping with the harsh weather conditions and emphasized that many people in Sudan are grappling with numerous hardships.

Abuk Garang Deng, one of the returnees, conveyed their distress due to the lack of basic necessities such as food, water, and shelter.

“We are sitting under trees, surviving on whatever food is available, exposed to the elements. Most fled without their belongings, lacking adequate utensils,” she shared.

Garang appealed to the state government to take immediate and realistic measures to alleviate their plight and save lives.

Responding to the appeals of these spontaneous returnees, Mr. Kerbino Thiep Tong, the commissioner of Aweil East County, affirmed the county administration’s readiness to dispatch a team to assess the actual number of returnees and provide assistance to those in need.

He committed to sharing this information with stakeholders, including international organizations, highlighting the influx of people from various entry points in his county, such as Majok-yithhiou and Angot, arriving from Sudan.