9 May 2014 - For the first time since arriving in the Western Equatoria State capital Yambio, displaced people who had fled violence in the country today received food from the South Sudan Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (SSRRC).

Jenty Bangafu, SSRRC Deputy Director in the state, said the commission had registered 241 households (over 2,000 people), who would receive food provided by the World Food Programme.

SSRRC is working with World Vision International and the UN Refugee Agency to distribute food to the displaced, who have so far been relying on support from families and friends.

“I escaped death in (the Upper Nile state capital) Malakal to come to Yambio,” said Angelina Peter, a mother of four. “I thank God for people of Yambio and the non-governmental organizations that gave us food today,” Angelina added.

She urged the government and opposition to stop war because women, children and elderly people were dying from conflict and hunger.

Regina Alex, who fled her home in Juba, said it was vital for the rest of the country to learn from the people of Western Equatoria, who live together peacefully. She also urged those arriving to seek refuge in the state to avoid conflict and fighting.

Western Equatoria is one of the states in South Sudan that has remained calm since conflict started in several other states in December 2013. Millions of people have been displaced in the country and neighbouring countries.