UNHCR - United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees

Published purpose

February 2014 - The complex humanitarian situation in South Sudan has become much worse since fighting broke out between government and anti-government forces in Juba, the capital city, in December 2013. The United Nations estimates that over 1,000 people have been killed and hundreds of thousands more wounded. The fighting has displaced some 740,000 people from their homes within South Sudan, and more than 123,400 South Sudanese have sought protection in neighbouring countries (Kenya, Ethiopia and Uganda). Agricultural production has been disrupted, and essential basic services, such as water points, schools, and medical facilities have been shut down or destroyed in the fighting. Immediate humanitarian assistance needs include food, health care, shelter, protection, water, sanitation and hygiene. With the support of DFATD and other donors, UNHCR is providing: shelter (tents and plastic sheeting) and non-food items (blankets, sleeping mats, mosquito nets, jerry cans, hygiene materials for women) to internally displaced people in South Sudan during the first three months of 2014; assistance to up to 235,000 Sudanese refugees; and support to all refugees who are survivors of sexual and gender-based violence, as well as specific protection activities to safeguard displaced children.