DUK PADIET - In the far north of Jonglei, communities are suffering immensely from persistent military confrontations between forces aligned with the two main parties to the peace agreement.
The conflict, including airstrikes, has forced more than 280,000 people to flee their homes since late December. The impact on humanitarian organizations, serving some of the most vulnerable communities in South Sudan, has also been severe with at least eight health facilities looted, vandalized or damaged by violence.
This includes the aerial bombardment of a hospital serving more than 250,000 people, who are now largely without access to care, and the looting of a 12-boat convoy carrying 1,500 metric tons of food assistance, for 73,000 people in Baliet County.
“Attacks against clearly marked medical facilities and barriers to humanitarian operations constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law,” said the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Humanitarian and Resident Coordinator, Kiki Gbeho. “The violence must stop.”
To help deter violence and provide a protective presence, civilian and uniformed peacekeepers serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan made the 186-kilometer journey from Bor to Duk Padiet, one of the worst affected areas. It is the first time they have been able to reach the area since the conflict began, due to persistent access denials.
The peacekeepers engaged with local authorities and communities, who noted that their presence would help build trust and confidence.
During their time on the ground, UNMISS personnel assessed the security situation, human rights conditions, and reports of conflict-related sexual violence, while also monitoring humanitarian access.
They observed that, while Duk Padiet town remains calm, surrounding areas continue to experience insecurity. The communities are also experiencing food shortages, limited health services, and a cholera outbreak.
Ahead of an anticipated humanitarian mission to the area, local authorities called for stronger coordination to ensure the safe movement of convoys along the Bor–Duk corridor. UNMISS reiterated its commitment to support humanitarian partners by enhancing security and access.
Ms. Gbeho stressed the need to remove constraints on humanitarians who are doing their utmost to support those most in need amidst conflict, movement restrictions, and severe funding gaps.
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By Francesca Mold
