South Sudan Celebrates World Refugees Day in Gorom Settlement, Calls for Support Amid Challenges

By Fuli Dickens Isaac 

In a remarkable event marking World Refugees Day on Thursday, South Sudan joined the global community in commemorating the day at the Gorom refugees settlement in Juba. The event aimed to identify and address the challenges facing refugees living in the area.

Makario Mori Laku, the chief of Gorom refugees settlement, highlighted the difficulties faced by the refugees, stating, “Refugees lack basic shelter, healthcare units, drugs, education facilities, clean water, and food in the camp. Most of them are vulnerable and in dire need of assistance.” He called on UNHCR and other partners to step in and aid in improving the situation for the refugees amidst the challenging conditions at the camp.

Addressing the issue, Juliette Nnunebey, Deputy Representative of UNHCR, assured the refugees of support, stating, “UNHCR will work closely with partners to address health services, education, water, and other essential needs of the refugees. We urge the refugees to remain resilient as we continue to assist them in the camp.”

Duty Akol, Director for Protection at the Relief Commission, emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting refugees, urging those from Sudan, Congo, Burundi, and Eritrea to remain vigilant in South Sudan as a country that welcomes everyone in the region. He added that refugees who spend ten years in South Sudan are eligible for South Sudanese nationality, while those who choose to return to their home countries can do so voluntarily.

Amidst concerns raised by some refugees about potential food ration cuts during the current economic crisis, there was a call for continued support from UNHCR. The refugees expressed worries that any reduction in food assistance could lead to starvation at the Gorom settlement in Juba.

The event was attended by representatives from ACROSS South Sudan, government officials, and Inkomoko organization, with support from UNHCR South Sudan. As South Sudan stands in solidarity with refugees on World Refugees Day, the call for support and assistance for those in need remains a top priority.