12 February 2014 - Displaced people at an UNMISS base in the South Sudanese capital Juba were opting to remain there until the security situation outside became more predictable, their representatives said today.

Although life in the protection of civilian site came with some challenges, the UN was providing food, water and security, which made it a better option to their homes outside, according to James Gatluak.

The 30-year-old father of five, who is seeking shelter at UN House near Jebel, also said it was easier for women to move in and out of the protection area than for men who stayed in “for fear of the unknown”.

“Life is difficult in the camp here, but we are trying to survive,” said Mr. Gatluak, who is running a phone-charging business. “I lost everything during the crisis. Even if peace is restored, it will be difficult to start life again.”

He believed peace was still possible in the country, if the UN and the international community exerted adequate pressure on warring parties to end the conflict, he said.

“South Sudanese can unite and live as one people,” said James Kuth, a 43-year old father of ten. “But if there are people who do not want peace, what can we do?”

Both men requested UNMISS to resettle them outside the country should the government fail to secure a safe haven for them within South Sudan.

“I cannot stay where my life is in danger even if I call this country my motherland,” said Mr. Kuth.

Mr. Kuth, who is living in the protection site with two wives and children, said he would rather die of hunger inside the protection site than of gunshots outside it.

Although humanitarian agencies were providing food and other assistance, several IDPs felt they should start businesses to ensure their families had enough to survive on besides aid they received.

Nyayuel Chol, a 30-year-old woman who arrived at the site a month ago with her four children, said she had yet to receive a food ration, but was lucky her sister was sharing her ration with them.

In the meantime, Ms. Chol has opened a small tea-selling business along the walkway of the protection area to make ends meet.