President Salva Kiir Mayardit has pledged full and unhindered access for humanitarian agencies operating across South Sudan.
The President made the commitment on Monday, February 23rd, 2026, during a meeting in Juba with Tom Fletcher, the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator.
During the meeting, the two leaders discussed the worsening humanitarian situation in the country and the urgent need for a coordinated national response.
Tom Fletcher welcomed the President’s assurance, describing the talks as constructive and focused on tackling both national and regional humanitarian challenges.
He said President Kiir reaffirmed his government’s readiness to allow humanitarian agencies to operate without restrictions, a move considered vital for delivering life-saving assistance to displaced families and communities affected by flooding and ongoing crises.
Fletcher’s visit to South Sudan is aimed at mobilizing increased international support, as displacement, flooding, and other challenges continue to strain relief operations across the country.
However, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Albino Akol Atak, said that improved collaboration would help speed up response efforts, especially as humanitarian needs continue to rise in several parts of the country.
He confirmed that President Kiir has directed the ministry to strengthen coordination with United Nations agencies and other humanitarian partners.
Humanitarian partners have repeatedly stressed that safe and unrestricted access is critical to delivering food, shelter, medical care, and other essential services to vulnerable populations.
The meeting comes at a critical time, as authorities and aid agencies work to prevent further deterioration of living conditions among affected communities across South Sudan.
