The World Food Program (WFP) has suspended humanitarian operations in parts of northern South Sudan following a violent attack on a river convoy carrying over 1,500 tonnes of aid. The incident, which occurred last week in Upper Nile State, saw armed youths loot the 12-boat fleet despite prior security assurances from local authorities.
WFP announced on Wednesday that it will halt activities in Baliet County until stolen supplies are recovered and staff safety is guaranteed. The attack highlights escalating instability linked to political tensions between supporters of President Salva Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar, particularly in Jonglei State where UN reports indicate 280,000 people have been displaced since January 2026.
Local officials confirmed security forces attempted to protect the convoy but were overpowered. Humanitarian agencies warn that such incidents exacerbate South Sudan's deepening crisis, with chronic instability and access restrictions crippling aid delivery in a nation still grappling with conflict and poverty 15 years after independence.
