Tom Fletcher, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, is currently in South Sudan, having arrived on February 20th. During his visit, he witnessed the dire humanitarian impact caused by ongoing violence, which has displaced more than 280,000 individuals over a few weeks. This visit comes at a time when humanitarian crises are escalating, and Fletcher expresses urgent concern regarding the global response to the situation in South Sudan.

In Akobo, near the Ethiopian border, Fletcher met with hundreds of displaced people, primarily women and children seeking refuge from the violence. These individuals shared harrowing testimonies about their experiences, such as Nyapan Nyang Lual, who fled her home in Lankien due to bombardments by the South Sudanese army. As she held her one-month-old granddaughter, Nyapan represented the many vulnerable civilians who have suffered directly from the conflict that has engulfed their communities.

The displaced individuals, many of whom gathered outside a church to greet Fletcher, displayed signs protesting the actions of the South Sudanese military. This incident highlights the urgent need for international attention and action to address the humanitarian crisis exacerbating the suffering of civilians. Fletcher's visit emphasizes the importance of a global response to prevent further disaster and underscores the role of the UN in coordinating humanitarian efforts amidst growing concerns about the neglect of these urgent crises by the international community.