By Chol D. Johnson
South Sudan’s National Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Albino Akol Atak, has warned officials and individuals against selling food aid donated to the vulnerable people.
Speaking on Wednesday during the launch of the first phase of Chinese food distribution in Juba, Akol emphasized that anyone found diverting or selling the aid would be held accountable.
“We warn those who may intend to do business with this. Those who will be found doing these practices will be held accountable,” Akol said.
The first phase includes 37 containers of rice, amounting to about 814 metric tons, targeting approximately 48,000 IDPs, returnees, and vulnerable individuals.
Akol noted that the beneficiaries have already been identified and are ready to receive the assistance.
“More than 48,000 IDPs have already been assessed, and they are ready to receive this in all the centers,” he said.
He added that the ministry will closely monitor the distribution process to ensure the food reaches those in need, starting with centers in Juba before extending to other areas.
The minister explained that the Chinese food aid will be delivered in four phases this year. While 40 percent of the supplies will be distributed in Juba and surrounding areas, 60 percent will go to the 10 states and three administrative areas with the highest number of vulnerable people.
Akol also revealed that following the rice distribution, the next phase will include wheat supplies.
The food aid is intended to support populations affected by floods, drought, and conflict, including returnees.
He expressed gratitude to China for its continued humanitarian support:
“China is one of those friendly countries to South Sudan, which always extends a hand to people affected,” he said.
Meanwhile, Stephen Kueth Gach, chairperson of the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission, also praised the Chinese government for its assistance.
“We thank the Chinese government for their unwavering support to preserve life and create an environment where food security can be guaranteed for the most vulnerable,” Kueth said.
Kueth confirmed that the distribution will cover 48,000 people in Juba and surrounding areas, as well as beneficiaries across the country’s 10 states and three administrative regions.
He added that partners, including representatives from the Chinese embassy, will be invited to attend the official handover during the final phase of the distribution.