The World Food Program condemns attacks on one of its convoys in South Sudan

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the program said that it has suspended all its activities in Baliet County until the safety and security of its employees, partners and contractors is ensured, and the Government of South Sudan takes immediate measures to recover the stolen goods.

Between January 30 and February 1, a 12-boat World Food Program convoy transporting more than 1,500 metric tons of vital food aid was repeatedly attacked by armed youth. The cargo, which also included non-food items transported on behalf of the partners, was then looted by local residents in various locations within Baliet District.

The program explained that although it received assurances and security guarantees from the authorities to ensure the safe movement of humanitarian aid, the looting operations took place at night without any security intervention from the district authorities.

He stressed that attacks on humanitarian workers are absolutely unacceptable, strongly calling on all parties involved in the conflict to respect the vital role of humanitarian workers and protect facilities and resources that are indispensable for providing humanitarian aid.

Incidents in Jonglei

The World Food Program also expressed grave concern over recent incidents in Jonglei State, where vital humanitarian infrastructure has been severely damaged by armed conflict between government forces and opposition groups.

According to the programme, essential infrastructure, including warehouses and health facilities, were destroyed in separate incidents.

He warned that access restrictions and attacks on humanitarian aid convoys threaten to undermine the program’s ability to reach more than 4.2 million of the most vulnerable women, men and children.

Insecurity has already forced WFP to suspend its plan to store 12,000 metric tons of food before the rainy season in Jonglei State.