On 15 April 2023, violence broke out in Sudan between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), causing over 3.3 million people to flee their homes.

Since then, over 240,000 people have fled across the border to South Sudan, many are women and children, adding to the 2 million already internally displaced people.

Vacant warehouses are being turned into emergency accommodation, but many people are also sheltering under tarpaulins and plastic sheets. After the violence and long journey by foot, there is great need for medicine as many still wait for international aid.

Global Mission Partners Relief and Development partner, Christian Mercy International (CMI) is located near the border with Sudan and has been ideally placed to respond to this crisis.

CMI was requested by the government to assist with the humanitarian crisis and given responsibility for 150 returnees and refugees. They have distributed tarpaulins, mosquito nets and blankets to this group as well as food support (like rice, beans and oil) for 35 breastfeeding or pregnant mothers in the group.

Athiang, a mother with a disability, received a food package. She expressed the immense crisis in war-torn Sudan, stating, “We have experienced a lot of suffering - killing of people. We were waiting for support from UNCHR, but they were taking long to arrive.” Tragically, one of Athiang’s children passed away during this wait. Her prayer is this: “My God, may you provide me food to secure life of my remaining children”.

The support given to Athiang through CMI has given her hope. Thankful for the food packages, she said, “We trust in God that he will provide for me and my family”.

To cover this urgent response, Global Mission Partners has launched the South Sudan Refugee Crisis appeal.