By Alan Clement
South Sudan’s National Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC) has issued an urgent plea for international aid after an assessment revealed that over 27,000 people are living in “dire conditions” in Duk County, Jonglei State.
The assessment, conducted from January 24–26, 2026, confirmed that 27,145 internally displaced persons (IDPs) have sought refuge in the area following a surge in conflict. Many are currently sheltering under trees or in open spaces with little to no access to food, clean water, or medical care.
A Growing Crisis, the RRC team, led by Director General Biar Kuol Ayuen Biar, reported that the displaced families fled their homes due to clashes between government forces and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition (SPLA-IO). The IDPs primarily originate from Yuai, Uror, and Ayod counties, as well as Pajut, Poktap, and Panopanru.
“These findings confirm a critical humanitarian situation that requires immediate and coordinated intervention,” the RRC stated. “The displaced families are facing extremely harsh conditions. Life-saving assistance is urgently needed to prevent further deterioration.”
The influx has placed an immense strain on Duk County’s host communities, who are already battling chronic food insecurity and the aftermath of seasonal flooding. The RRC identified emergency shelter, food, and medical services as the most critical needs.
Health risks are rising rapidly. With limited medical facilities, children, pregnant women, and the elderly are increasingly vulnerable to communicable diseases and malnutrition.
The crisis in Jonglei comes as humanitarian funding for South Sudan remains severely constrained. Global donor fatigue and competing international crises have left local agencies with limited capacity to respond to protracted emergencies.
“The situation on the ground is alarming,” the Commission noted, warning that inaction will lead to preventable deaths. “The needs are clear, the numbers are verified, and the cost of inaction will be borne by vulnerable civilians who have already lost everything.”