Communities in South Sudan’s Unity State are preparing for the risk of worsening floods as rising waters threaten homes and displaced families.
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) says the rainy season could increase pressure on communities already facing insecurity and years of flooding.
Large areas around Bentiu remain affected by water from floods that began in 2019. Seasonal rains have caused water levels to rise further in subsequent years.
South Sudan floods threaten communities
UNMISS chief Anita Kiki Gbeho visited Unity State to meet local authorities, residents and peacekeepers.
During the visit, she discussed flooding, security and communal violence.
Communities are particularly concerned about the network of dykes protecting Bentiu and surrounding areas.
UNMISS engineers and humanitarian organisations have helped maintain the barriers, which protect hundreds of thousands of displaced people and members of host communities.
Communities seek help to strengthen dykes
Local representatives say more support is needed before floodwaters rise further.
They want authorities to strengthen and repair dykes, improve drainage systems and prepare evacuation routes.
Nyier Gatchang Pouch, a community representative in the Bentiu displacement camp, said residents lack the resources needed to tackle the flooding alone.
Insecurity adds to humanitarian pressure
Flooding is not the only challenge facing Unity State.
In March, thousands of people fled to a UN base in the Abiemnhom area after an outbreak of violence.
UN peacekeepers opened the base to civilians and provided medical assistance to injured people.
Many families are still trying to recover after homes and crops were burned or looted, according to UNMISS.
The mission subsequently delayed plans to close the base and said it would continue patrols and engagement with communities.
As the rainy season develops, residents now face the combined pressures of displacement, insecurity and the threat of further flooding.