South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Jenifer James
The chairperson of the South Sudan Union of Persons with Disabilities, Augustino Wudu Illario, has appealed for protection of vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, women, children, and the elderly, who are disproportionately affected by the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
In a statement on Friday, Wudu appealed for the protection of the persons with disabilities in the country, especially those affected by the war in the country.
“Persons with disabilities are among the most affected in situations like these. I wish to advocate for their full protection, as clearly outlined in Article 11 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD),” said Wudu.
Wudu highlighted that the convention’s mandates States to implement it in accordance with obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law, and all necessary measures to ensure the protection and safety of persons with disabilities in situations of risk and armed conflict.
He also urged the international community to intervene in Sudan’s conflict by engaging the warring factions in dialogue to end the violence.
“The international community must bring the two warring parties to the negotiating table,” he said. “It is the only way to end the suffering of Sudanese people who are dying from hunger and diseases in refugee camps,” he said.
The Sudan conflict has caused a severe humanitarian crisis, forcing millions to flee their homes and struggle for survival in overcrowded camps.
Wudu stressed the importance of restoring peace so displaced populations can return home and rebuild their lives; his call to action underscores the need for international commitment to protecting vulnerable groups and addressing the dire consequences of the Sudan conflict.
According to a UNICEF report that highlighted the worsening situation in South Sudan, where funding gaps have severely hampered the humanitarian response with Approximately 9 million people, including 4.9 million children, 2.2 million women, and 1.4 million people with disabilities, will need humanitarian assistance.
