UN Coordinator calls for joint action to tackle humanitarian crisis in South Sudan

JUBA – The UN Humanitarian Coordinator in South Sudan, Ms. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, on Thursday called for a joint action to address the humanitarian crisis in South Sudan ahead of World Humanitarian Day.

Speaking to reporters during a press conference in Juba on Tuesday, Ms. Nyanti called for an immediate end to attacks against civilians and humanitarian workers.

“It takes a village to raise a child. In the same way, it takes an array of partners to support crisis-affected people. We need urgent collective efforts to help the vulnerable population in South Sudan,” said Nyanti.

Nyanti expressed gratitude, and respect to the aid workers for providing life-saving assistance to thousands of people experiencing dire humanitarian needs amid attacks.

“I commend the humanitarian workers and all those risking their own lives to alleviate the suffering and save the lives of others,” Nyanti said.

The UN coordinator said South Sudan continues to remain the most violent context for aid workers, followed by Afghanistan and Syria.

She said five humanitarian workers were killed in the line of duty in South Sudan since the beginning of 2022.

“232 incidents related to humanitarian access constraints were reported between 1 January and 30 July this year.”

She said Jonglei and Central Equatoria account for 40% of all reported incidents since the beginning of the year.

“Impunity is a perpetuating factor and a driver of conflict and insecurity. There is an urgent need to bring perpetrators to justice. We need strengthened joint action, multidimensional dialogue, and engagement to address this.”

She added that “All armed factions must immediately cease targeting civilians, humanitarian personnel.