The Humanitarian Coordinator in South Sudan, Matthew Hollingworth, strongly condemns the latest attack on a humanitarian convoy in Yei County, Central Equatoria.
He calls for authorities and communities to ensure the safety of humanitarian personnel as they deliver assistance to the most vulnerable people in South Sudan.
“I am appalled by the horrific news of yet another act of violence against humanitarians and people serving the community in South Sudan. I want to express our condolences to the family and colleagues of the driver who was killed in Yei County on Friday,” said Hollingworth.
On 17 September, WFP convoy of seven people in three trucks, carrying 121 metric tons of food supplies destined for host communities in Morobo County was attacked in Mugwo Payam, Yei County.
Unknown gunmen opened fire on the convoy, killing a South Sudanese driver, injured one person, two were found unharmed and three are currently missing.
Attacking humanitarian personnel as they carry out their work is unacceptable and has to stop, said Hollingworth.
I call on all parties to respect, protect and enable those organizations and personnel working to provide humanitarian assistance to the citizens of South Sudan,” he continued.
Humanitarian access remains challenging across South Sudan with a spike of violence against humanitarian personnel and assets reported this year.
“These attacks constitute a serious violation of international humanitarian law. The trend of increased violence against humanitarians cannot continue. Our thoughts are now with the three people still missing. We hope that they will soon be safely back with their families”, Hollingworth concluded.