By Hou Akot Hou
The Northern Bahr el Ghazal State Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC) acting chairperson has warned members of the public against selling humanitarian assistance intended for vulnerable communities, saying those found engaging in the practice will be held accountable.
Gabriel Bol Dut said the warning follows reports that some beneficiaries have been selling humanitarian supplies, including Plumpy’Nut, a specialised food used to treat malnutrition in children, in local markets.
“We have realised that the food items being given to our local people are being sold in the market, and this is punishable,” Bol said.
He urged parents and caregivers to ensure that nutritional supplies reach the children for whom they are intended.
“Items like Plumpy’Nut, which is used to reduce malnutrition, are being sold. Why not give it to the malnourished child? Also, CSB flour can be cooked by a mother and eaten together with her child,” he said.
Bol said the RRC has introduced directives aimed at stopping the illegal sale and purchase of humanitarian commodities.
He warned that both those selling the supplies and those knowingly buying them for resale could face legal action.
“We have a constitution governing such sales of humanitarian items, and once you are found, you will be held accountable for it,” he warned.
In a separate development, Bol, who is newly serving in the acting position, said the commission has reviewed its directives concerning the operations of humanitarian organisations across the state.
He expressed concern that some international and national non-governmental organisations have been conducting meetings, trainings, and field activities without informing or involving the RRC.
“It has come to our attention that NGOs hold meetings without us knowing. Anyone conducting training or going to far-flung areas needs approval or a go-ahead from us,” Bol said.
He warned that humanitarian organisations operating without the knowledge or approval of the relevant state authorities could face consequences and may be required to answer questions regarding their activities.
Bol also criticised some international NGOs for allegedly selecting project locations without consulting state authorities.
“Some NGOs just go directly and choose the areas of their choice without our knowledge. This is unbecoming,” he said.
He further raised concerns about the implementation of donor-funded projects, alleging that some organisations have constructed incomplete infrastructure, including schools and health facilities, and left the projects unfinished.
“Some get donations from donors, and the way they implement the projects is unwelcome. Some build incomplete infrastructure like schools and health facilities and leave them halfway done. This is too weird,” he said.
South Sudan continues to rely heavily on international humanitarian and development partners to provide essential services amid economic difficulties.
However, concerns remain over coordination, accountability, and the implementation of donor-funded projects, with calls for greater oversight to ensure assistance reaches communities according to identified needs.