Abyei

A disputed region with minimal international support

Abyei sits along the border between Sudan and South Sudan and is claimed by both countries. It is often described as ‘the biggest flashpoint’ left unresolved when the two countries separated in 2011. There is no formal government or criminal justice system in the region. A United Nations peacekeeping mission, known as UNISFA, is entrusted with maintaining security.

Abyei is home to two ethnic groups: pastoral Ngok Dinka (from the south) and nomadic Misseriya (from the north) with higher numbers during the dry season in search of water and pasture. Tensions are high between the two groups. There are frequent incidents of violence. Deadly attacks also occur between Twic Dinka and Ngok Dinka communities.

Abyei’s contested status is a barrier to humanitarian access. With no recognised government, there is confusion about who should coordinate and implement the delivery of aid. International agencies often choose not to engage, believing the issues to be too complex, politically sensitive or outside their mandate. Isolated communities are left to fend for themselves.

Local Partner

Diocese of Abyei

HART has been active in Abyei since 2019. Our local partner, the Anglican Diocese of Abyei, is deeply committed to providing emergency relief, trauma counselling, education, agricultural assistance and healthcare to members of the local community.

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International organisations are confused about who is responsible for Abyei... We begged with the British ambassador but they said that it won’t go to Abyei as we are a ‘disputed territory’ and they can’t get involved.

Kuol Alor, Chief Administrator of Abyei

We are very grateful and thankful to the HART team and their supporters for their tireless support of the entire Abyei community.

Michael Deng Bol, Anglican Bishop of Abyei

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Abyei
Burma (Myanmar)
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