Renewed violence in South Sudan has forced an estimated 100,000 people to flee into neighboring Ethiopia, according to UNICEF.
Evacuation Sparks Mass Exodus
The crisis began after South Sudan’s army ordered the evacuation of Akobo on March 6, including civilians and humanitarian organizations.
Akobo, located in Jonglei State, has become a new flashpoint in escalating clashes between government forces and opposition groups.
While the army claims it has taken control of the town, conflicting reports and limited communications make the situation difficult to verify.
Humanitarian Situation Worsens
According to UNICEF:
Around 100,000 people have crossed into Ethiopia. Others have fled to safer areas within Jonglei and Upper Nile State
Children are among the most affected, with rising malnutrition rates
The situation has been made worse by:
The looting and closure of Akobo hospital
Destruction or shutdown of 28 health and nutrition facilities this year
An ongoing cholera outbreak in the region
On the Brink of Civil War Again
South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011, remains fragile. A 2018 peace agreement between:
Salva Kiir
Riek Machar
is now unraveling, with violence spreading across multiple مناطق since early 2025.
Why This Matters
This crisis signals:
A potential return to full-scale civil war
A rapidly growing humanitarian emergency
Increased pressure on neighboring countries like Ethiopia hosting refugees
Source: TRT Africa
