Morobo Residents Flee as Fighting Returns

(MOROBO COUNTY) – At least 80 South Sudanese from Morobo County in Central Equatoria State are reported to be stranded near the South Sudan – Democratic Republic of Congo border after being displaced by fighting in their area, according to eyewitness accounts.

The civilians were forced to flee following clashes between government and opposition forces in Panyume Payam. People who escaped the violence say they crossed into neighbouring areas in search of safety but now lack basic support.

Some of those displaced told local sources that they first reached Koboko District in Uganda, where authorities officially handed them over to the Democratic Republic of Congo as refugees seeking protection. Since then, they say they have remained stranded with little assistance.

One of the displaced persons, identified as Malish, said he arrived in Koboko on the evening of Monday, January 5, 2026. He explained that the group had been hiding in Panyume for some time due to ongoing insecurity before deciding to flee.

Malish said at least two members of their group were abducted during the violence and remain missing. He added that families also lost livestock and other valuable property while escaping the area, increasing their hardship.

Morobo County has experienced ongoing insecurity since April 2025. Although authorities have at times described the situation as relatively calm, residents and observers have reported repeated outbreaks of armed conflict, abductions and growing humanitarian needs.

The latest displacement brings to attention the continued challenges facing civilians in parts of Central Equatoria State, where insecurity has disrupted livelihoods and forced families to move across borders in search of safety.

Summary of the Morobo Situation

The situation remains unclear as families wait for assistance and information on missing relatives, while humanitarian concerns continue to grow in the border areas.