South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Jenifer James
The Deputy Commissioner for the Commission of Refugee Affairs, John Dabi, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting and supporting refugees in the country.
He made these remarks at the Gorom refugee settlement during South Sudan’s 14th Independence Day celebrations on Wednesday.
According to Dabi, the government’s top priority is to safeguard both citizens and refugees.
“It is the responsibility of the government to provide security to the refugees in the country,” Dabi declared. “Our laws offer protection and services to all individuals affected by war who seek refuge in South Sudan.”
Dabi emphasized the government’s legal and moral obligations towards displaced populations, many of whom have fled conflict in neighbouring Sudan.
He also acknowledged the challenges facing the humanitarian response, particularly with respect to registration and limited funding.
“Many individuals have not been registered since arriving at the refugee camp,” he explained. “Registration is vital for receiving services and protection under South Sudanese refugee law.”
To address this issue, Dabi announced that the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) will commence a mass registration exercise on Thursday for newly arrived and unregistered refugees in Gorom. “This is the gift of independence,” he said, highlighting the symbolic significance of the initiative.
The Gorom settlement, located near Juba, hosts a growing number of Sudanese nationals displaced by recent violence. While some have successfully integrated into the system, many remain undocumented and unable to access food and essential services.
Dabi expressed gratitude to the local community of Gorom for providing land to accommodate refugees, recognising their role in promoting coexistence.
Meanwhile, Julius Taban, the Assistant Commissioner for Refugee Affairs in Central Equatoria State, commended the refugees for their unity and positive collaboration with the government. He extended warm wishes to both South Sudanese citizens and refugees, encouraging continued peace and cooperation.
Gasima Abubakar Musa, the women’s representative in Gorom, appealed to donors for increased support for organisations assisting the refugee community. She highlighted registration as a pressing issue, noting that many women and their families remain undocumented, which limits their access to food and other essential services.
