The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) Thursday reported that over 30,000 people in South Sudan have been displaced following violent conflicts throughout the country.

The OCHA statement highlights South Sudan’s struggle with political stability, food insecurity, and natural disasters such as flooding. The statement estimates over 9.4 million people in South Sudan will need humanitarian assistance and protection in 2023, an increase of over 2.2 million people requiring such aid in 2022. In addition, the statement detailed how on December 24 a group of armed men attacked communities throughout the town of Pibor in the eastern region of the country. The violence led to cattle raids, property destruction, and massive displacement.

UN Humanitarian Coordinator for South Sudan Sara Beysolow expressed dismay at the events, stating “People have suffered enough. Civilians – especially those most vulnerable –women, children, the elderly and the disabled – bear the brunt of this prolonged crisis.” A joint statement released Wednesday by the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) also expressed concern over the recent events, with the agencies stating they were “gravely concerned about the escalating ongoing violence, loss of life and reports of alleged use of heavy weaponry.”

The joint statement also called upon leaders in South Sudan to work together to bring an end to the violence. The agencies stressed the need to investigate the violence so that the perpetrators may be held accountable for their actions.