11 December 2013 – Hunger, health problems, insecurity and a lack of schools and roads. These were some of the challenges reported when a high level diplomatic, United Nations and South Sudanese government delegation today visited Jonglei State’s remote Pochalla County to assess the humanitarian situation in the area.

Led by the British Ambassador Ian Hughes and the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary General Toby Lanzer, the team met with local government officials, Sudan People Liberation Army (SPLA) officers and representatives of non-governmental organizations operating in Pochalla County.

“We have many challenges in the county including insecurity, lack of roads and health problems,” said Acting County Commissioner Ochalla Ojullo. “We need the assistance from the government and humanitarian partners”.

Noting other challenges like hunger and lack of schools, Mr. Hughes said the delegation would convey the plea to the government.

“We (will take) the messages we got from the communities … to the state authority in Bor, to the national government in Juba and to the president,” he said.

Mr. Lanzer, who is also the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, urged representatives of the local community to work hard and to promote peaceful co-existence.

“What is important today is encouragement to work hard and to keep going on your own,” he said. “We will do what we can to help you, whether it is the World Health Organization or the World Food Programme, but ultimately the most help will come from you.”