(PIERI, UROR COUNTY) – Flights to Pieri in Jonglei State have been suspended after fighting broke out on Monday between two rival factions of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army In Opposition (SPLA-IO). Local authorities say the suspension is likely to affect the movement of goods, humanitarian supplies and business travel to the area.
The clashes took place between forces loyal to First Vice President Riek Machar and troops aligned with the SPLA-IO Kitgwang faction led by General Simon Gatwech Dual. According to Uror County Commissioner James Gatkhor Gatluak, the fighting began at around 2 a.m. and continued for several hours before calm was restored.
Local officials reported that one soldier was killed and two others were injured on both sides. The dispute is believed to have started over control of a military tank held by the Kitgwang side. The commissioner said the tank and the Kitgwang base were seized by the forces loyal to Machar.
He said local leaders have sent delegations to speak with both sides in an effort to prevent further violence. Civilians have not yet been displaced, but the county administration said people may be asked to move if the situation worsens.
The suspension of flights means the Pieri airstrip is currently closed. It is not yet known whether commercial and humanitarian flights will resume soon. The airstrip is an important entry point for traders supplying goods to local markets and for aid organisations delivering health and food services in Uror County.
Civil society representative Ter Manyang, the Executive Director of the Centre for Peace and Advocacy, called for negotiations to stop the violence. He said the continued clashes between the two SPLA-IO factions harm the country’s reputation and discourage both investors and development partners.
The split in the SPLA-IO movement began in 2021 when General Gatwech Dual announced a separate faction, accusing Riek Machar of making concessions during the implementation of the 2018 peace agreement. The division has led to repeated clashes in Jonglei and Upper Nile States.
Local business groups say the temporary airstrip closure could interrupt the supply chain of essential goods, especially commodities that normally arrive by plane during the rainy season when road access is limited. Market prices in Pieri and surrounding areas may rise if transport disruptions continue.
Authorities say monitoring will continue over the coming days as mediators work to calm tensions.
Airstrip Closure Raises Concern Over Supply Access
| Sector / Area | Likely Impact | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Trade and Local Markets | Possible price increases | Supply routes disrupted by flight suspension |
| Humanitarian Services | Delivery delays expected | Aid agencies rely on Pieri airstrip for access |
| Civilian Safety | Currently stable | Evacuation plans ready if situation worsens |
| Transport and Logistics | Air travel suspended | No confirmed reopening date yet |