Kei Emmanuel Duku
The U.S. Embassy in Juba has issued a strong statement condemning what it described as a “worsening pattern of looting and rent-seeking” directed at humanitarian aid efforts in South Sudan.
The condemnation comes after an incident in which South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) personnel allegedly raided a boat carrying World Food Programme (WFP) supplies.
The Embassy’s statement highlighted a specific incident on September 7, where a boat carrying WFP food and commodities in New Fangak was raided.
The supplies were intended for civilians facing severe food insecurity. Although the stolen goods were replaced on September 20, the embassy views the incident as part of a “continuing pattern of predation.”
The statement expressed particular outrage over the involvement of individuals entrusted with their country’s security. “It is especially egregious because the individuals involved are entrusted with their country’s security,” the statement read.
The U.S. Embassy called on South Sudanese leaders at all levels to prevent such actions and to partner with international donors seeking to help their people.
The statement also urged the transitional government to create conditions that would end the country’s humanitarian crisis.
The Embassy raised specific concerns about the denial of humanitarian access in Upper Nile State, which is facing a possible risk of famine.
“Urgent humanitarian intervention is required in these areas, and government authorities must facilitate access,” the statement insisted.
The U.S. Embassy concluded its statement by calling on 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.” It added that this includes paying salaries to public civilian employees and security services.
“This reflects 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 humanitarian situation in South Sudan remains dire, with a significant portion of the population dependent on foreign aid for survival. This has made the delivery of humanitarian assistance a critical but often perilous task. The country has been plagued by prolonged conflict, political instability, and natural disasters, leading to widespread displacement and food insecurity.
International aid organizations, including the World Food Programme (WFP), often face significant operational challenges, including logistical hurdles, security risks, and bureaucratic obstacles.
The U.S. Embassy’s statement reflects the concerns of the international community that these challenges are being exacerbated by individuals in positions of power, directly undermining efforts to alleviate the humanitarian crisis.
The call for the government to use public revenue for public needs also points to broader issues of governance, accountability, and the proper management of the country’s resources.
When No.1 Citizen Newspaper contacted Major General Lul Ruai Koang for comment through SMS he is yet to issue statement.