By Jackson Gaaniko
Authorities in Western Equatoria State say more than 700 refugees from the Central African Republic are awaiting relocation from Source Yubu to Makpandu Refugee Camp as part of efforts to improve humanitarian support and access to basic services.
The Commissioner for Refugee Affairs in Western Equatoria State, Paulino Zizi Bugwa, said preparations for the relocation are ongoing, including coordination between government authorities and humanitarian partners to facilitate transportation, registration verification, and settlement arrangements.
The refugees arrived from the Central African Republic in December 2025 and were registered in Source Yubu through a joint exercise conducted by the Commission for Refugee Affairs, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, and humanitarian partners, including World Vision.
Official records show that 2,699 refugees from 1,141 households were registered, including vulnerable groups and persons with special needs.
Authorities said humanitarian operations in Sosiw have faced challenges due to limited international funding, affecting transport, airlift operations, and service delivery for refugees.
Officials also raised concerns over the lack of education services for children in Source Yubu, noting that Makpandu Refugee Camp provides established primary and secondary education facilities, making relocation a priority.
The government says refugees remain under protection while awaiting relocation, with security personnel deployed to maintain safety and order within the settlement.
Authorities added that monitoring continues as humanitarian agencies prepare for a more structured relocation process in the coming weeks.