called Wad Banda in west Kordofan. As a result and other reasons, authorities stepped up their campaign of detaining youths from Misseriya .
For the first time in the area, the government military troops had to be transported in civilian vehicles (buses), probably to avoid SPLA ambush
and hiding their movement.
Political developments
The political settlement that was recently reached between Sudan and South Sudan led to optimism that a political solution could be found for
the conflict in South Kordofan. On 21st March 2013 South Kordofan state governor, Ahmed Haroun visited the cities of Talodi and Eleeri in South
Kordofan, in his public speech, he mentioned that peace will come through negotiations. He mentioned that they are tired of war and had realized
that the gun would not solve the issue and that the only way is through a negotiated settlement. Also the statements from political leaders in
Khartoum went into the same direction (lasted by President Basheir speech 1st April 2013). On the other hand, the SPLM leadership has
affirmed statement in its vision for peace (27th March 2013). Therefore, it seems that the two parties are on their way to the negotiation table.
Humanitarian situation
The humanitarian situation remains worrying as no agreement has been reached on the delivery of humanitarian assistance to the displaced and
affected people. The situation continues to deteriorate further since no aid agencies are allowed to access the region. Prices of basic
commodities continue to escalate; for instance; sorghum which is a staple food has reached 250 SDG per sack (120kgs). A gallon of gasoline is
worth 12 SDG, a kilogram of beef is between 40-50 SDG (1 USD=6.5 SDG). Long queues for bread are reported in Abugebaiha.
IDP camps are still being systematically targeted by and there were attempts from the government to evacuate them. Apart from harassment
faced by IDP camps from government soldiers, there is general lack of water. For instance, the only borehole at Mabsut camp broke down due
to over use as a result of big population in the camp. Also the Wells (ponds) which acted as water sources for Gurdud Nyama IDP camp dried up
because the population in camp is big. Currently, a number of IDPs are relocating themselves to different towns and other IDP camps.
II
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