(JONGLEI STATE) – The United States Embassy in South Sudan has strongly condemned the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) following an incident in which soldiers allegedly raided a World Food Programme (WFP) boat carrying food and supplies for civilians in New Fangak.
The incident took place on 7 September, when personnel from the SSPDF reportedly boarded the humanitarian vessel and removed food commodities intended for people experiencing severe food shortages.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the US Embassy in Juba said the stolen supplies, which included sorghum and beans, were later replaced on 20 September. However, it described the act as part of “a worsening pattern of looting and rent seeking” against humanitarian operations by armed groups and individuals in positions of authority.
The embassy described the conduct as “especially serious” because those accused of the theft are members of the country’s national security forces.
The United States called on South Sudan’s leaders to guarantee the safety of aid workers and to create conditions that allow uninterrupted humanitarian access. It urged the transitional government to work with international donors and partners to support people in need.
Humanitarian groups have repeatedly warned that aid delivery in South Sudan is becoming increasingly dangerous. More than 30 aid workers have been abducted so far in 2025, double the number reported in the previous year.
The embassy also expressed concern about government officials blocking humanitarian access in conflict-affected parts of Upper Nile State, warning that such restrictions put communities at risk of famine.
Latest assessments show that more than 83,000 people face catastrophic hunger in Pibor and Upper Nile, while 7.7 million people, or half the population, are expected to experience food insecurity between April and July 2025.
Food Security Situation in South Sudan (2025)
| Classification | Estimated Population Affected |
|---|---|
| Catastrophic hunger | 83,000 |
| Emergency shortages | 2.4 million |
| Crisis level insecurity | 5.2 million |
| Total food insecure | 7.7 million |
The US Embassy also called on South Sudan’s authorities to begin using public funds more effectively, including for the payment of civil service and security sector salaries, and to reduce the high costs and risks that hinder the delivery of aid.
Despite repeated calls from international partners, the government has yet to comment on the allegations. Army Spokesperson Major General Lul Ruai Koang could not be reached for a response.
South Sudan remains one of the most dangerous countries in the world for humanitarian workers. Analysts warn that continued attacks and access restrictions risk further isolating communities in Jonglei and Upper Nile, worsening hunger levels at a time when global donor support is already stretched.
For businesses and investors, the growing insecurity around aid supply lines also raises broader concerns about governance, stability, and infrastructure reliability in the country. The international community has made clear that protecting aid workers and maintaining access to vulnerable populations is essential for future cooperation if South Sudan seeks to diversify its economy and attract investment.