Razor wires in towns are used on high walls to protect people and properties inside buildings from outside intruders. In Abyei Town, locals are using razor wires on the ground to prevent unwanted access by people or animals, especially at night. People are using redundant razor wires from the UN missions scattered team sites in the region.
As a result, some children, elderly people and even domestic animals such as goats, cows, donkeys, and dogs sustained injuries from razor wires.
‘Umbrella Program’ for Monday 18th September 2023 spoke to users, a doctor, and the town Mayor on ways to reduce the risk of the razor wire.
Some women say they are using razor wires because they cannot afford to buy bamboo for the fence.
“I use razor wire for it is free, and it can keep away intruders such as animals or thieves. I didn’t know it was harmful like this,” a woman said.
A clinical officer, Mr. Mawien Paleek in Abyei Hospital says the hospital receive patients with wounds caused by razor wire every week.
“It’s dangerous. Unless a wound is cleaned, properly dressed, and nursed for a few weeks it cannot be healed. For those who delay coming immediately, it will require surgery to get rid of inflamed parts and get cured,” he explained.
Abyei Town Mayor urged residential committees to engage with people using these harmful wires. Mr. Mading Anyaang said the ban on these wires will be gradually applied but people must be pro-active.