Ms. Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee of the UN addressed the Security Council on November 5, 2024, detailing the critical situations in Sudan and South Sudan. She highlighted the ongoing war’s humanitarian impacts, including refugee crises and resource strains, particularly in Abyei. The lack of progress in political dialogues raises concerns for stability in a region affected by conflict and climate challenges.
On November 5, 2024, Ms. Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee, Assistant Secretary-General for Africa in the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations, addressed the UN Security Council regarding the prevailing crises in Sudan and South Sudan. She highlighted that the ongoing conflict in Sudan, now entering its nineteenth month, continues to severely disrupt both nations, particularly affecting political dialogue concerning the Abyei region and border issues. Ms. Pobee reported that the violent situation has led to extensive humanitarian crises, with hundreds of thousands of refugees fleeing Sudan into South Sudan, exacerbating an already dire living situation due to inadequate provisions for water, food, and healthcare. She emphasized the detrimental effect of armed incursions from groups like the Rapid Support Forces, which have worsened tensions between local communities in South Sudan and contributed to the displacement of thousands due to recent climate-related disasters. The Assistant Secretary-General further remarked that the uncertainty and violence have led to significant disruptions in South Sudan’s oil production, worsening the financial situation after years of insecurity. She noted that without addressing the conflict in Sudan, the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2046 (2012), aimed at peaceful cooperation between Sudan and South Sudan, remains unattainable. While there has been no notable progress on the political front in 2024, UNISFA remains committed to monitoring the situation and facilitating possible political discussions. The mission plays a crucial role in maintaining stability in the Abyei area, successfully preventing clashes among local communities thus far, although violations of international agreements by South Sudanese forces pose significant operational challenges. Adding to her concerns, Ms. Pobee urged the Security Council to assist in enhancing the capabilities of UNISFA by ensuring the full deployment of UN police, vital for maintaining law and order in the increasingly strained conditions following the influx of refugees into Abyei. She called for immediate cooperation from the South Sudanese authorities to restore operational capacities and compliance with existing international agreements regarding Abyei’s administration.
The speech by Ms. Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee draws attention to the deteriorating situations in Sudan and South Sudan amidst prolonged conflict and instability. The war in Sudan not only affects national security but also significantly impacts the regional dynamics of both nations, particularly around the contentious Abyei area. The humanitarian crisis stems from continuous violence, resulting in displacement and resource shortages, which aggravate the existing economic hardships faced by South Sudan. Additionally, Ms. Pobee’s briefing underscores the failure of political dialogues, which are crucial for resolving pressing disputes concerning border issues and governance in the Abyei box.
In conclusion, Ms. Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee’s briefing illustrates the urgent need for international support and resolution strategies concerning the conflicts in Sudan and South Sudan. The humanitarian crisis, characterized by mass displacement and resource scarcity in Abyei, necessitates enhanced measures in collaboration with UNISFA to restore stability and compliance with peace agreements. The absence of substantial political dialogue further complicates the situation, highlighting an immediate need for action from the Security Council to stabilize the region and support humanitarian efforts.
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