The United States Embassy in South Sudan has issued a strong condemnation of what it calls “continued predation” against humanitarian aid workers, following a recent incident in which South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) personnel allegedly stole food and supplies from a World Food Programme(WFP) boat.
In a press statement issued Tuesday, the embassy revealed that on September 7, SSPDF personnel raided a boat carrying WFP commodities in New Fangak. The stolen food and supplies were intended for South Sudanese civilians facing severe food insecurity.
While the stolen goods were reportedly replaced on September 20, the U.S. Embassy noted that the incident is part of a “worsening pattern of looting and rent-seeking directed against assistance activities in South Sudan by armed groups and individuals in positions of authority.”
The embassy described the actions as “especially egregious” because the individuals involved are “entrusted with their country’s security.”
The statement called on South Sudan’s leaders “at all levels” to prevent such actions and to partner with international donors and others seeking to help the South Sudanese people.
The U.S. also urged the transitional government to create conditions that will “end the country’s humanitarian crisis.”
Furthermore the embassy expressed increasing concern about the inability of humanitarian partners to reach conflict-affected populations in Upper Nile State, citing “humanitarian access denials by transitional government officials.” These areas, the embassy warned, face a “possible risk of famine,” and require “urgent humanitarian intervention.”
Additionally the U.S. Embassy reiterated its call for South Sudan’s leaders to “immediately eliminate the unacceptably high costs and risks that threaten delivery of aid, ensure humanitarian access, and start using public revenue to address public needs.”
This includes using public funds to support humanitarian efforts and to pay the salaries of public employees and security services.
