Uganda: UNHCR asks for $700m to support S S refugees

The UN Refugee Agency is appealing for $700 million to respond to the needs of South Sudanese fleeing to Uganda this year.

It says since July, more than 70,000 South Sudanese refugees have arrived in the country.

UNHCR Communications Officer in Uganda Charles Yaxley said the number of new arrivals is increasing on daily basis.

“Since the beginning of violence in Juba on the 8th of July, we have received more than 70,000 South Sudanese refugees in Uganda,” Mr Yaxley told Eye Radio.

He warned that more than one million South Sudanese will seek refuge in Uganda by the end of this year.

“We are asking for 700 million dollars. And that is in light with the expectation bearing in mind the current trends and the number of people who have fled so far,” he added.

Mr. Yaxley said UNHCR has opened a new camp in Yumbe in the North Uganda to host new arrivals.