South Sudan: Humanitarian compounds looted in Maban county July 23

Event

On Monday, July 23, protesters looted at least ten humanitarian agency compounds located in the northwestern county of Maban. At least two humanitarian workers were injured. Local residents were reportedly demanding job opportunities and accused humanitarian organizations of hiring employees from outside the county. Further violent protests are possible in the coming days and weeks.

Context

South Sudan has been wracked by years of political, interethnic, and intercommunal violence - exacerbated by border and oil revenue disputes with Sudan. President Salva Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar signed a peace agreement in Khartoum (Sudan) on June 27, following a series of talks. The terms of the agreement included a permanent ceasefire and the deployment of African Union troops to uphold the treaty. However, clashes between government forces (SPLA army) and rebels took place on June 30, the day the ceasefire was due to take effect.

Advice

Many Western governments advise against nonessential travel to South Sudan. Certain regions should be particularly avoided, including the states of Unity and Upper Nile, the north of Warrap state, parts of Eastern and Central Equatoria states, and areas along the border with the Central African Republic, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. If travel is necessary, ensure that proper security protocols are in place.