UK announces 74 million euros to support vulnerable people in South Sudan

By Benjamin Takpiny

The United Kingdom Minister for Development Anneliese Dodds announced a package of 74 million euros to support the most vulnerable across South Sudan who are facing the devastating effects of a protracted humanitarian crisis, flooding and regional conflict.

The British embassy in Juba said in a statement on Thursday that Dodds pressed for meaningful progress towards a stable, safe and democratic South Sudan during a three-day visit from 18-21 August.

It noted that  Dodds announced the UK aid package during her visit to Bentiu IDP camp, South Sudan’s largest internally displaced persons’ camp, which is home to 100,000 people fleeing conflict and flooding.

 Dodds met with people facing extreme poverty and instability.

She noted that meaningful political progress is essential to ensure peace and stability and to address the growing humanitarian need across the country.

The First Vice President Riek Machar and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ramadan Goc underlined the urgency of implementing key steps towards a safe, stable and democratic South Sudan.

They said this includes greater government investment in essential health and education services, and creating the conditions necessary to conduct free, fair and inclusive elections including the unification of armed forces, creation and resourcing of credible institutions and a strong civic and political space.

Dodds expressed concern over the recent National Security Services Act which she said is aimed to limit political and civil space in South Sudan.

The Minister who is also the Minister for Women and Equalities in the UK also met Minister of Gender Ayaa Benjamin Warille and civil society representatives, and highlighted UK aid which will support women-led organizations to work with communities to prevent gender-based violence.

Counseling and support services will also be made available to women and girls who have experienced gender-based violence. 

 “The camp I visited is also on the frontline of the climate crisis, following unprecedented flooding that threatens to overwhelm over 100,000 displaced people who are already facing acute hunger and need.” Dodds said

The Director General of the International Organization for Migration, Amy Pope said that they welcome the much-needed attention the United Kingdom is bringing to the displaced people in South Sudan, where already fragile communities are facing the extreme impact of climate change, alongside a large influx of refugees and returnees escaping the war across the border in Sudan. 

“Since these multiple crises began, IOM has been responding to the mounting humanitarian needs of displaced populations in the region. While the needs are vast, these additional resources will help us save lives and provide practical solutions by scaling up life-saving transportation assistance, health care, provision of water, sanitation, hygiene, shelter, and specific support for victims and survivors of gender-based violence,”  Pope said.