SOUTH SUDAN: Diocese in South Sudan Appeals for Support for Displaced Persons, Migrants
Sr. Jecinter Antoinette Okoth, FSSA
Following the inter-communal violence in Western Equatoria State in South Sudan’s Tombura Yambio Diocese, which has led to the displacement of thousands into Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, the Diocese is appealing for “urgent” humanitarian assistance.
In a letter addressed to the Apostolic Nuncio in South Sudan, the government officials, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), all parishes in Tombura Yambio Diocese, Institutions, and United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) agencies, the Diocesan official states that the displaced persons and migrants, “lack basic necessities and struggle to survive… hence are in desperate need of food, water, shelter, medical care, sanitation facilities, and protection.”
“I am writing to you today to appeal for your urgent assistance to the dire situation faced by displaced persons and migrants in our community particularly at Tombura,” Fr. Dominic Sasa the episcopal vicar for refugees, immigrants, migrants, and IDPs highlighted in the letter shared Tuesday, May 21, and explained, “I witness first-hand the struggles of these vulnerable individuals who have been forced to flee their homes due to man-made violence of killing the people with guns and burning their houses and belonging.”
According to Fr. Sasa, children are the most vulnerable and require medical healthcare, livelihood, education, and psychological support.
Addressing the various categories for humanitarian aid the episcopal vicar for refugees, immigrants, migrants, and IDPs said, “To the Apostolic Nuncio: We kindly request your intervention in advocating for the displaced persons and migrants on a national and international level. Your moral authority and diplomatic connections can bring much-needed attention to their plight.”
To the government officials, the Diocese appeals for resources including basic tents to help especially during rainy situations, hoes, spades, and seeds to use in planting for their day-to-day living, water canes, mosquito nets, blankets, and medical kits among others. Besides, the letter reads in part, “We also request streamlined procedures to facilitate their integration into our society.”
The Diocese further requests support from the NGOs through food distribution, medical care, shelter construction, seeds, hoes, and other equipment noting that their “expertise and experience in humanitarian aid would be invaluable in alleviating the suffering of the individuals at Tombura.”
They also appeal to all parishes in Tombura Yambio Diocese, to organize donation drives for essential supplies, offer temporary shelter within church facilities, and also provide counseling and emotional support.
To other institutions Fr. Sasa writes, “Partner with NGOs and UN/UNMISS agencies to provide emergency relief and long-term support, advocate for policies that support the rights and needs of displaced persons and migrants, and offer educational and job training programs.”
In conclusion the diocesan official calls for continued collaboration from all the partners and the government narrating that the IDPs are “human beings deserving of compassion and support… and together a lot can be achieved.”
For any clarification or collaboration on relief efforts, reach out to dominicsasa22@gmail.com +21192972884- +211916945920.
