President Salva Kiir Mayardit
Friday, April 17, 2026 | Author – Alex Onyango | Nairobi-Kenya | File Photo | GT-News |
South Sudan is facing a “more complex and dangerous” situation marked by escalating violence, political tensions, and worsening humanitarian needs, the head of the United Nations mission in the country has warned.
Briefing the UN Security Council for the first time since her appointment, Anita Kiki Gbeho said the country stands at a critical juncture, with civilians increasingly bearing the cost of renewed instability.
“The operating environment has become more complex,” she told the Council. “Political tensions, escalating security incidents, and humanitarian pressures increasingly reinforce one another.”
Rising Violence and Civilian Toll
Fighting between government forces and opposition groups has intensified, particularly in Jonglei State, with reports of inflammatory rhetoric fuelling tensions.
According to UN figures, deaths and injuries rose by 40% in 2025 compared to the previous year.
One of the most alarming incidents cited was the aerial bombardment of a hospital in Lankien—an attack that underscores the growing risks faced by civilians.
Intercommunal violence also continues across several regions, driven by cattle raiding, land disputes, and revenge attacks.
Humanitarian Crisis Worsens
The humanitarian situation is deteriorating rapidly. Nearly 10 million people—close to the country’s entire population—now require assistance.
Since late December, over 276,000 people have been displaced in Jonglei alone, while more than 110,000 have fled to neighbouring Ethiopia.
Aid delivery is becoming increasingly difficult due to insecurity and access constraints.
UN Mission Under Strain
The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) is also facing major operational challenges, with a 25–30% reduction in capacity due to budget constraints.
Gbeho said this has forced the mission to scale back its presence and make difficult trade-offs between protection, humanitarian support, and political engagement.
Recent incidents in Akobo and Abiemnhom showed the impact of these limitations. In both cases, UN peacekeepers had to delay planned withdrawals due to renewed violence, highlighting the continued need for their presence.
Call for Political Solutions
Despite the deteriorating situation, Gbeho stressed that there is broad agreement among South Sudanese stakeholders on the need for a peaceful transition.
“The challenges facing South Sudan cannot be resolved through military means,” she said, urging renewed commitment to inclusive dialogue.
She welcomed increased regional efforts, including the appointment of former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete as African Union High Representative, aimed at reviving stalled peace talks.
A Warning to Leaders and the International Community
As the UN Security Council considers renewing the UNMISS mandate, Gbeho warned that current international support does not match the scale of the crisis.
She urged South Sudan’s leaders to take “demonstrable steps” toward implementing the peace agreement and meeting the expectations of their citizens.
At the same time, she called on the international community to sustain unified support for a political solution, including an immediate ceasefire and credible preparations for elections.
“Preserving the mission’s ability to support protection, prevention, and political engagement will be essential,” she said.
