(VOVWORLD) - The ongoing conflict in Sudan is worsening the already severe humanitarian crisis in South Sudan for refugees and the communities hosting them, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) warned Monday.
 Illustrative image (Photo: Reuters) |
Marie-Helene Verney, UNHCR representative in South Sudan, said millions of South Sudanese are living below the poverty line, and the conflict in Sudan is taking a heavy toll on South Sudan's economy.
A recent survey found that those forced to flee to South Sudan often arrive in rural areas with limited services, high unemployment, a lack of educational opportunities, poor infrastructure, and overcrowded shelters.
According to the UNHCR, South Sudan has more than 460,000 refugees, mainly from Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Ethiopia.
Food insecurity remains the most pressing issue. 74 percent of both refugees and host communities went hungry in the previous month. Verney said the world needs to invest in the young population of South Sudan and give them the tools and the opportunity to build a better future.