JUBA – The United Nations Humanitarian and Resident Coordinator, Anita Kiki Gbeho, said on Friday that insecurity and conflict continue to drive mass displacement across South Sudan, with more than 320,000 people newly displaced this year alone.
Speaking during the celebration of United Nations Day on Friday in Juba, Gbeho, U.N. Resident Coordinator, said 9.3 million people are currently in need of humanitarian assistance.
“Insecurity and conflict continue to drive displacement, with over 320,000 newly displaced this year alone. Currently, 9.3 million people require some form of humanitarian assistance,” Gbeho said.
According to her, 1.2 million people have crossed the border into South Sudan since the Sudan conflict began.
She stated that the country is experiencing challenges that are worsened by economic shocks, reduced funding, and difficulties in access, which make it increasingly difficult to provide support to those in greatest need.
“Here in South Sudan, the UN has worked in partnership with the people and the government to provide humanitarian assistance, support for the peace process, and protection of civilians, as well as improving livelihoods and building resilience,” said Gbeho.
Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro, the Minister of Cabinet Affairs, said the United Nations has achieved several milestones, including maintaining international peace and security, adding that the UN has developed more than 70 peace operations worldwide.
“Since its founding, the United Nations has stood as a beacon of hope, cooperation, and dialogue among nations. In the last 80 years, the United Nations has shaped the modern world through its ongoing pursuit of peace, justice, and development,” said Lomuro.
He stated that the United Nations has been more than a partner and a pillar; South Sudan, as a country in transition, looks to the United Nations for continued technical, economic, and development cooperation,” he said.
The UN Day is marked annually on 24 October. South Sudan became a member of the UN 11 years ago after winning its hard-fought independence.
