US embassy condemns killing of humanitarian workers in South Sudan

JUBA – The United States embassy in South Sudan has joined the United Nations and other international powers in condemning the continued killing of humanitarian workers in South Sudan.

In the past week, two separate attacks in South Sudan’s Jonglei State resulted in the death of two aid workers. Three other staffs who fled ambushes were injured.

In a statement on Wednesday, the US embassy condemned the killing urging South Sudan authorities to provide security to humanitarian workers delivering aid to floods-affected citizens in different parts of the world’s youngest country.

“The reported violence against humanitarian workers has interrupted or delayed lifesaving assistance to vulnerable people mainly children, women and the elderly,” the statement seen by Sudans Post reads in part.

“In order to continue delivering life-saving humanitarian assistance, the U.S. Embassy in Juba and the broader humanitarian community in South Sudan calls upon authorities and communities at all levels to guarantee the safety and security of aid workers, humanitarian assets, and all the people who access humanitarian services,” it added.

The U.S. Embassy, along with the international community, reiterates its commitment to supporting the people of South Sudan.

Since the 2013 outbreak of conflict, 124 aid workers , most of whom were South Sudanese, have lost their lives in the line of duty.

The reported humanitarian access incidents involved violence, or threats of violence, against humanitarian workers and assets.