Over 1000 Marju IDPs in Dire Need for Humanitarian Assistance

(YEI) – More than 1,300 internally displaced persons (IDPs), primarily women and children, have arrived in Pokula Boma, Yei River County in Central Equatoria State, after fleeing ongoing violence in neighbouring Marju Sub-Boma, local authorities have confirmed.

Since Tuesday, local officials and community members have been registering new arrivals. Youth leader Thomas Khamis told Access Radio® that 1,331 individuals from 221 households have sought shelter in public spaces, including Pokula Primary School, the local health centre and boma offices.

“These people are sheltering in classrooms, churches and the boma compound. They have nothing, no food, tents, clothing, medicine or safe drinking water,” said Khamis.

The displaced fled Marju due to a recent escalation in violence. Khamis noted that repeated attacks by unidentified armed groups have forced residents to abandon their farms and properties. There have also been reports of looting, worsening an already fragile security situation in the region.

Women and children appear to be bearing the brunt of the crisis. Betty Apayi, a mother of nine, described the living conditions in Pokula as “worrisome.”

“We have no food, bedsheets, clothes or proper sanitation here. We are asking the government and aid groups to help us,” she said.

Local residents in Pokula are trying to assist the new arrivals despite their limited resources. Bidal Moses Alex, a host community member, said families have donated small amounts of food and temporarily opened public buildings to accommodate the IDPs.

“We welcomed them into our schools and churches. We have shared what we can, but the situation is urgent. They need mosquito nets, clean water and food,” Bidal told Access Radio®.

The County Coordinator of the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC), Mabe Moses, acknowledged receiving an informal report from the area chief, Sebit Alfred, about the arrival of the IDPs. However, he said detailed records are still lacking.

“We have only received verbal updates from the chief. There is no formal documentation yet. I have advised the executive chief to gather accurate information so we can present a clear case to the appropriate authorities and humanitarian partners,” Moses said.

Pokula Boma lies approximately 22 miles east of Yei town, while Marju Sub-Boma is about 17 miles southeast of Pokula. The area has been affected by intermittent violence in recent years, with displacement often recurring during periods of heightened insecurity.

As of July 2025, the displaced families, most of whom left behind farming activities and assets, are in need of immediate food and non food assistance. The local economy is already under strain and cannot support the sudden increase in population.