A WFP contractor killed in South Sudan has raised renewed concerns over the safety of humanitarian operations in the conflict-affected country. The World Food Programme confirmed that one of its private contractors was shot and later died from injuries sustained in Upper Nile State.
The incident comes amid escalating violence between supporters of President Salva Kiir and his long-time rival, Vice President Riek Machar, particularly in Jonglei and Upper Nile states.
According to the United Nations, at least 280,000 people have been displaced in recent weeks as fighting intensifies in several areas.
Details of the WFP contractor killing
Tomson Phiri, WFP spokesperson in South Sudan, told AFP that the contractor was attacked on Tuesday morning in Ngueny, located in Nasir County of Upper Nile State.
He said the individual was shot by an unidentified gunman and later died from the injuries. WFP did not release the contractor’s name or further identifying details.
Local media outlets reported that the victim was a Kenyan national, though the organization declined to confirm additional information.
Phiri stated that WFP is gathering further details and is cooperating with local authorities investigating the incident.
He stressed that humanitarian workers should not be targeted under any circumstances, adding that the safety of WFP personnel and the communities they serve remains a priority.
Escalating violence and humanitarian impact
The killing occurred amid renewed clashes between forces aligned with President Salva Kiir and those loyal to Riek Machar. Tensions between the two leaders, whose rivalry previously plunged the country into civil war, have resurfaced in several regions.
The United Nations reports that at least 280,000 people have been displaced, primarily in Jonglei state. Many of the displaced are in urgent need of food, shelter and medical assistance.
Humanitarian organizations operating in South Sudan have increasingly come under direct attack. Recent incidents include:
An attack on a WFP river convoy in the north carrying 1,500 tonnes of aid, which was looted, prompting the agency to suspend operations in the area.
The burning and looting of a primary healthcare centre run by Save the Children in Walgak town earlier this month.
An airstrike that struck a Doctors Without Borders hospital in Lankien, destroying its main warehouse and critical medical supplies, while staff sustained minor injuries.
These incidents have significantly disrupted relief operations in some of the country’s most vulnerable communities.
Suspension of aid operations
Following the attack on its river convoy, WFP suspended operations in parts of northern South Sudan, citing security risks. The convoy had been transporting essential food supplies to populations already affected by displacement and food insecurity.
Aid agencies warn that continued attacks on humanitarian infrastructure could deepen the country’s food crisis.
Background on South Sudan’s instability
South Sudan gained independence in 2011, becoming the world’s newest state. However, it has faced prolonged instability marked by civil war, economic hardship and widespread corruption.
The rivalry between Salva Kiir and Riek Machar previously triggered a civil war in 2013 that killed tens of thousands of people and displaced millions. Although peace agreements have been signed, periodic violence continues to undermine stability.
For Iraq and the broader region, developments in South Sudan highlight ongoing challenges facing fragile states, particularly the risks posed to humanitarian workers operating in active conflict zones.
Conclusion:
The killing of a WFP contractor underscores the deteriorating security environment in parts of South Sudan and the growing dangers facing humanitarian organizations. International agencies continue to call for protection of civilians and aid workers as displacement and humanitarian needs increase.
