By Jackson Gaaniko
Authorities in South Sudan’s Western Equatoria State have expressed concern over the burgeoning arrival of Sudanese refugees in the state’s capital Yambio.
In September 2024, nearly 1,500 refugees made their entry into the Western Equatoria’s pineapple city province following continual fight in Sudan.
Citizens question the legality of their entry due to a lack of communication from the Commission for Refugee Affairs (CRA).
Officials stressed that they are not blocking refugees from entering to the State province. They said however, they believe the arrival of the Sudanese refugees was uncoordinated and poorly managed.
During his visit to Makpandu Refugee Camp, Yambio County Commissioner led a team to investigate the surge.
Hon. Mbiko Barakati challenged that his office has not received any official communication. Barakati stressed that neither did the local security forces, community leaders, or the Kingdom regarding the refugees’ arrival.
“We are not denying them entry, but the way they came is illegal because neither my office nor any relevant authorities were informed. If anything happens regarding safety, health, education, shelters, or protection, we are unprepared,” Barakati stated.
He criticized the CRA’s Yambio office for failing to collaborate with local stakeholders.
“Last week, during an extraordinary meeting with the CRA and UNHCR partners, we discussed the lack of communication and coordination. These are serious concerns that need to be addressed.” He stressed
Piqued by the growing concern from local authorities, the commissioner for Refugee affairs acknowledged the influx of refugees but said most of them are coming from Malakal.
Hon. Paulino Zizi Bugwa pointed out that proper approval from the CRA headquarters in Juba is required to manage the situation.
“The delay in approval has hindered local authorities from implementing necessary security measures.” He revealed
Security departments accompanying the delegates, including representatives from the Azande Kingdom, echoed these concerns, noting that they were not informed by CRA Yambio officers about the refugee influx.
The authorities underscored the need for better coordination to ensure the legality and safety of the refugees’ entry into the state.
