Muslim families in Renk town in Upper Nile state said they are not enjoying Ramadan this year because of the ongoing fighting in South Sudan and massive displacement of civilians.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj yesterday, several local Muslims said this year's Ramadan lacks the usual flavor because of the insecurity and because the majority of their neighbors have fled to Sudan.

“During our normal nature in the past in Renk we did enjoy the month of Ramadan,” said one resident. “We used to have our iftar (break the fast meal) outdoors and visit friends and relatives, but this year is totally different because most of the families fled to Sudan.”

They said many families have lost their children and neighbors in the fighting.

Observers of the month-long fast added they wished peace and stability would prevail so that they could return to their normal lives and enjoy the holy month of Ramadan like before.

File photo: A refugee encampment in Kodok, Upper Nile, October 2013 (Radio Tamazuj)