Returnees and refugees from Meiram face food shortages, seek aid

AWEL – Hundreds of returnees and refugees who fled conflict in Sudan are pleading for food and shelter assistance upon arrival in South Sudan, according to a local representative.

Gar Tut Gar, representing returnees in border area of Majok-Yithiou of Northern Bahr State said in an interview with Sudans Post on Tuesday that they face critical living conditions.

“The biggest challenges are lack of immediate necessities like food, shelter, and healthcare,” Gar said. “We worry about how to survive here. Life is tough. Children cry because they have nothing to eat, even though we’re safe now.”

Many fled the conflict in disarray, separated from loved ones. Gar said he doesn’t know the whereabouts of some relatives caught in the fighting.

To support his family, Gar has begun working on farms in the host community. He appealed for urgent intervention from authorities.

“We urge the authorities to provide assistance as soon as possible,” he said.

The Relief and Rehabilitation Commission in Northern Bahr el Ghazal acknowledged the dire situation.

Chairperson Benson Lual Awach said international organizations, including the International Organization for Migration (IOM), will visit Aweil North and East counties this week to assess the needs of returnees.

“We are aware of their situation,” Awach told Sudans Post. “International organizations will visit the area. The government will take necessary action. The governor will be in Aweil soon to discuss how to support them.”

Returnees have recounted harrowing experiences of mass killings in Meram and separation from family members. Many remain anxious about the whereabouts of loved ones.