Over 26,000 people flee to Uganda to escape uncertainty in South Sudan: UNHCR

More people continue to flee uncertainty and fighting in South Sudan, with 26,468 people have crossed into Uganda's northern region, including 24,321 in the previous six days alone, the UN refugee agency UNHCR said on Friday.

UNHCR spokesperson Andreas Needham told a press briefing that since fighting erupted on July 7 between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, the influx continues to be characterised by a high proportion, more than 90 percent, of women and children.

"Yesterday, an estimated 8,337 refugees crossed in to Uganda from South Sudan, a new record high since the influx began and in 2016," the spokesperson said.

He added that an estimated 6,500 crossed in Elegu, 659 in Moyo, 156 in Lamwo and 642 in Oraba while 380 arrived in Kiryandongo Reception Centre on Thursday.

"The influx is severely stretching the capacity of collection points, transit centres and reception centres," he noted, adding that on Wednesday night, more than 7,000 people slept at Elegu collection point, significantly beyond its 1,000-person capacity.

Fresh fighting broke out in Juba on July 7 as the world's youngest country marked its fifth anniversary, and initial government figures reported that at least 272 people have been killed, including 33 civilians. Endit