The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has halted its operations in South Sudan’s Baliet County due to an attack on its river convoy. The convoy, consisting of 12 boats carrying over 1,500 metric tonnes of essential food aid, was repeatedly targeted by armed youth between January 30 and February 1. The cargo, which also included non-food items for partners, was looted by local community members in Baliet despite security assurances.
The WFP, based in Juba, South Sudan’s capital, expressed disappointment over the lack of security intervention by county authorities during the overnight looting. Consequently, all activities in the county have been suspended until the safety of staff, partners, and contractors is guaranteed. The agency urged the government to take immediate action to recover the stolen goods and condemned attacks on humanitarian workers as unacceptable.
In addition to the incident in Baliet, the WFP raised concerns about the impact of armed conflict in Jonglei State. The agency reported severe damage to vital humanitarian infrastructure in Akobo, Ayod, Nyirol, and Uror counties due to clashes between government forces and opposition groups since December 2025. Destruction of warehouses and health facilities has occurred, hindering humanitarian efforts in the region.
The WFP highlighted the challenges posed by access restrictions and attacks on humanitarian convoys, jeopardizing aid delivery to over 4.2 million vulnerable individuals in South Sudan. Ongoing insecurity in Jonglei has already disrupted the agency’s plans to preposition 12,000 metric tonnes of food ahead of the rainy season. The agency emphasized the critical need for all parties involved in the conflict to safeguard humanitarian workers and resources essential for assistance efforts.
