Coronavirus: “We are not receiving any new arrivals” – official

This is a current picture of children who are fleeing on–going brutal attacks in South Sudan crossing South Sudan–Uganda–border bridge, at Busia. The area is one of the main routes South Sudanese civilians are taking to reach mainland Uganda. Picture by Adidi Rashul | 03 Jun 2020

After the outbreak of intercommunal violence in the world’s youngest nation, South Sudan, that left hundreds dead across 28 villages in Jonglei State, attacks on civilians by unknown armed groups stared to take place in the Southern part of the country. The attacks on villages in Central Equatoria State usually take place during the night hours. This has caused unknown number of displacement of civilians from their homes – many entering Uganda seeking safety. It is not known if the events in the two states are related. Nonetheless amid coronavirus pandemic, Uganda has temporarily closed its doors to new arrivals. Refugee Desk Officer, Solomon Osakani, in the Office of the Prime Minister or OPM that deals with the matters of refugees and asylum seekers defended the government’s position. The officer spoke to our reporter, Adidi Rashul, by phone.