Mass Evacuation Cripples Vital Assistance Programs
A government-mandated evacuation in South Sudan's Akobo East region has suspended humanitarian operations supporting over 200,000 people, according to Oxfam. The order forced tens of thousands of residents and aid workers to leave abruptly, worsening catastrophic conditions in an area where many already survived on wild fruits due to extreme food shortages.
Displacement Wave Intensifies Vulnerabilities
The evacuation has triggered new mass movements, with thousands of families—over half women and children—fleeing to border areas. Many had recently sought refuge in Akobo East after escaping conflict in Jonglei State. Oxfam Country Director Shabnam Baloch warned the displacement increases risks of sexual violence, abduction, and child marriage amid escalating insecurity.
Regional Strain Reaches Breaking Point
Approximately 37,000 displaced people have crossed into Ethiopia's Gambella region, joining 78,000 South Sudanese refugees already there. UNOCHA reports this influx strains resources in a region hosting over 450,000 refugees. Ethiopia's capacity to respond is further hampered by funding cuts to aid programs and concurrent drought-related crop failures.
Aid Workers Describe 'Harrowing' Scenes
Local humanitarian staff report families being driven into wilderness areas with minimal supplies. Many had only recently settled in Akobo East after fleeing Walgak, hoping for stability. With border crossings like Tergol overwhelmed, international organizations urge immediate funding to prevent famine and disease outbreaks.
