The Sudanese government says it has set up three camps for South Sudanese refugees at the border between the two countries. 

The United Nations estimates that over 150,000 people have fled to neighboring countries, mainly Ethiopia, Sudan, Kenya and Uganda.

South Sudanese Ambassador to Sudan, Mayen Dut, told Eye Radio from Khartoum that more than 12,000 refugees are being hosted in camps at the border with South Sudan.

“There are like two camps in White Nile State and one camp in Southern Kordofan and another camp in Western Kordofan,” he said.

“The total number of people in these camps is 12, 341 and the biggest camp is kilo Hashara camp, which accommodates 10,000 people. This is in White Nile.”

During his visit to Juba last month, Sudanese President Omar El- Bashir said he had given instructions for the border with South Sudan to be opened for those fleeing to enter Sudan.

He said they would not open new camps because South Sudanese are free to move in and live anywhere in Sudan.