By Matik Kueth
At least tens of thousands of civilians fleeing violence in Jonglei State are facing a secondary crisis: access to life-saving aid.
Humanitarian organizations are struggling to deliver food, medical care, and shelter as insecurity, looting, and staff evacuations hamper relief efforts.
Since December 29, renewed fighting has displaced around 100,000 people across several counties, according to local authorities and humanitarian partners.
The majority of those forced to flee are women, children, and older adults. Many are sheltering in remote areas to avoid further attacks, while others have sought refuge in neighboring states.
Lakes State alone reported more than 11,000 arrivals from Jonglei on Tuesday, U.N. spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said in a media briefing.
Aid groups operating in northern Jonglei have faced severe obstacles, as some have relocated staff due to insecurity and evacuation orders, while others continue with local personnel but struggle to restock health facilities and maintain other essential services.
Reports also indicate that several aid facilities and assets have been looted or confiscated by parties to the conflict, further complicating relief efforts.
“The challenges are immense,” Dujarric said. “We continue to engage with all parties to ensure that aid can reach those most in need safely.”
The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) confirmed that negotiations with local actors are ongoing to enable safe humanitarian access.
The situation adds to an already dire humanitarian landscape in South Sudan.
In 2025, conflict and floods displaced more than 715,000 people, according to U.N. figures.
Humanitarian agencies warn that without secure access, thousands of vulnerable civilians may remain trapped in volatile areas without essential support.