HIGHLIGHTS
UNHCR delivers aid relief in Western Equatoria - On 14 August, UNHCR completed distribution of emergency relief items to an estimated 25,000 internally displaced people (IDP), many of whom lost almost everything they had in recent violence, in South Sudan's Western Equatoria state. The aid operation targeted nearly 5,000 vulnerable families who were driven from their homes in Maridi town in early June when conflict between cattle keepers and farmers triggered ethnic violence, in which at least 14 people were killed and much property was destroyed. UNHCR conducted focus group discussions with the affected population to understand the needs on the grounds and engaged the population on protection themes. Displaced South Sudanese told UNHCR that they needed shelters, food, education for their children and farm tools. Family tracing and creation of conditions conducive for return were the main protection priorities raised by the population.
UNHCR hands overs host community support projects in Western Equatoria: In Yambio, UNHCR handed over two projects for the host community of Western Equatoria and announced further cooperation with state and local authorities. On 13 August, UNHCR Representative together with Acting Governor Clement Juma Mbugoniwia and State Minister of Education Phillip Pia inaugurated two primary schools in Yabua and Nabagu, located in Nzara and Yambio counties respectively. A day before, two vehicles were donated to the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Local Government and Local Enforcement in Yambio.
UNHCR facilitates access to fistula treatment for refugees: In Wau, some 16 refugees have successfully undergone fistula surgery. Patients continue to observe post-surgery medication. Awareness campaigns continue since 20 July 2015 and will officially end on 19 August 2015.