IDPs return to Akobo, but hunger, disease threaten fragile recovery

BOR – A growing number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) are gradually returning to their homes in Akobo County of Jonglei State, but worsening humanitarian conditions are undermining the gradual recovery after months of displacement, a latest report presented to the authorities reveals.

Findings from a three-day humanitarian assessment show that while relative calm has allowed returns to begin across several areas, including Gakdong, Dengjok, Nyadit, and Puoltuak payams, returnees are facing severe shortages of food, healthcare, and shelter.

The assessment, conducted by a joint team of humanitarian agencies and local authorities, covered key locations across Akobo County and reported no security incidents during the exercise—an indication of improving stability in areas that previously experienced violence.

Despite this, the report paints a stark picture of conditions on the ground. Many families returning to their homes are unable to access basic food supplies, raising concerns of deepening hunger in already vulnerable communities. Health services remain limited, while inadequate shelter has left returnees exposed to harsh weather and heightened risk of disease.

The findings were presented to Jonglei State Governor Riek Gai Kok and Akobo County Commissioner James Kueth Makuach by representatives of humanitarian partners, including the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and South Sudanese NGOs.

Officials say the scale of need far outweighs available support.

“The report provides a clear and comprehensive overview of the situation. What is most pressing now is food support, as communities are struggling to survive,” Governor Riek said after receiving the findings.

Authorities have begun facilitating the return of some vulnerable groups, including elderly people who had fled violence in parts of Akobo West, but aid agencies warn that returns without adequate assistance risk worsening the crisis.

A separate assessment team remains in Walgak Sub-County to evaluate conditions there, as concerns persist that needs may be even more severe in hard-to-reach areas.

Local officials have called for urgent intervention, warning that the current situation requires immediate and coordinated humanitarian response.

“We must act urgently to address the needs identified, especially the critical food shortages affecting our people,” Commissioner Makuach said.

Humanitarian actors are expected to submit the full report to partners in Juba to mobilise support, but delays in response could further strain communities already struggling to rebuild their lives.

The situation in northern Jonglei, particularly in Akobo and surrounding areas, has been shaped by cycles of violence involving government forces and armed opposition groups, which have repeatedly forced civilians to flee. Although returns are now underway, aid workers caution that without sustained support, the gains could be short-lived.