In February 2025, humanitarian access in South Sudan was severely hampered by armed conflicts, violence against aid workers, and bureaucratic obstacles. Key regions faced targeted attacks, while logistical challenges persisted, complicating vital aid delivery as the rainy season approached.
In February 2025, humanitarian partners in South Sudan reported 25 access challenges that hindered aid delivery, including armed group hostilities, bureaucratic obstacles, and violence against humanitarian personnel and assets. With the rainy season approaching, prepositioning of essential supplies is crucial for maintaining access to critical services as roads may become impassable.
In Upper Nile state’s Nasir County, clashes between militias and the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) have caused displacement, casualties, property destruction, and interruptions to humanitarian operations. As a result, 23 humanitarian staff were relocated from Nasir, Mandeng, Jikmir, and Ulang to ensure safety.
Violence targeting humanitarian personnel has also escalated in Jonglei, Central Equatoria, and Western Equatoria. On multiple occasions in Jonglei, aid workers have faced ambushes, looting, and threats. Notably, two security guards were killed at an OXFAM warehouse in Motot by armed youth from the Greater Pibor Administrative Area, and there were two separate shooting incidents in Jonglei State involving a humanitarian convoy and a UN contractor, underscoring road travel’s inherent risks.
Bureaucratic challenges have been significant in Renk County, Upper Nile State, where a 1,500 USD registration fee was demanded from an INGO by county labor officers, exemplifying an ongoing trend of irregular levies that complicate aid operations. Additionally, security forces in Aweil East County limited vehicle movement on February 14, obstructing an INGO’s planned mission to Wedwel. These bureaucratic and security challenges further delay essential aid deliveries to affected populations.
The humanitarian landscape in South Sudan remains fraught with challenges as reported in February 2025. Armed conflicts, targeted violence against humanitarian workers, and bureaucratic hurdles severely hamper aid delivery. As the rainy season approaches, the urgency for effective prepositioning of supplies amplifies to ensure continuity of essential services.
Original Source: www.unocha.org
