South Sudan, Uganda, Kenya: Disruptions to cross-border trade likely through April after recent attacks targeting truck drivers in southern South Sudan /update 1

Event

As of April 4, disruptions to cross-border travel and cargo transport into and out of South Sudan from Kenya and Uganda are likely through April. The Kenya Transporters' Association has reportedly requested that its members suspend travel into South Sudan, specifically along the Yei-Juba road route. The Uganda National Transport Alliance has reportedly suspended transport shipments to and from South Sudan. The action is in response to repeated attacks against truck drivers in southern South Sudan since late March. At least four attacks, leaving as many as 15 people dead, have been reported along the Yei-Juba and Juba Nimule routes. Ugandan and Kenyan nationals are among the dead. There have been no claims of responsibility for the attacks.

The Sudanese government has blamed the attacks on National Salvation Front (NAS) rebels. NAS is an anti-government armed group based in the south of the country. NAS has denied involvement in the incident and suggested that elements of the South Sudan People's Defence Forces are behind the violence.

South Sudanese officials are likely to prioritize security along major routes and near crossing points over the near term. South Sudan relies on cross-border transport for the delivery of goods. The suspension of some cargo transport may result in shortages of some commodities in South Sudan over the coming weeks.

Advice

Plan for possible commodity shortages. Exercise caution while traveling in southern South Sudan. Avoid travel at night and consider travel in convoy. Liaise with trusted sources on the status of routes before departure. Maintain regular contact with your diplomatic representation if operating in southern South Sudan.