Over 23,000 S. Sudan refugees cross into Uganda

KAMPALA - A total of 23,546 South Sudanese refugees fleeing intense fighting back home have crossed into Uganda since Dec 16, a new report by the United Nations refugee agency here said on Tuesday.

The update report by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said many refugees continue to stream into the East African country.

Of the 23,546 refugees include 16,264 individuals received at Dzaipi transit center/primary school in Adjumani district and 5,552 individuals received at Ocea reception center. There are also 1,730 individuals who have arrived directly at Kiryandongo refugee settlement.

"The situation at Elegu/Nimule border and the Dzaipi transit center remain worrisome given the particularly large number of arrivals," said the report.

The agency said although an emergency response is underway and some assistance is available, there is a critical lack of adequate shelter, water and sanitation facilities, and medical supplies at the overcrowded premises.

It said the humanitarian agencies handling the refugees have been overwhelmed by the number of arrivals and are struggling to deal with the situation.

"Given the massive influx all basic needs require an immediate response," said the report.

Fighting broke out mid last month between troops loyal to former vice president Riek Machar and President Salva Kiir.

There are ongoing talks between the warring parties in an attempt to stop the fighting.