The World Food Programme (WFP) has suspended all activities in Baliet County, South Sudan, after an aid convoy was repeatedly attacked and looted. The convoy was transporting over 1,500 metric tons of food and 100 cubic meters of non-food items.
World Food Programme halts operations in Baliet County amid attacks
Between 30 January and 1 February, a 12-boat WFP convoy faced multiple attacks by armed youth in Upper Nile State. The cargo, including food and non-food items for partners, was looted despite assurances of safe passage from local authorities.
Following the attacks, WFP South Sudan announced on X that it has paused all operations in Baliet County. The convoy was carrying more than 1,500 metric tons of food and 100 cubic meters of non-food supplies.
⚠️@WFP has suspended all activities in Baliet County after a convoy carrying 1,500+MT of food and 100 cubic meters of non-food items was attacked multiple times by armed youth and looted by the community.
More details👇🏿
— WFP South Sudan (@WFP_SouthSudan) February 4, 2026
WFP said the suspension will remain until stolen items are recovered and security is guaranteed. It also called for the protection of humanitarian operations across the region.
The organisation described the attacks as threats to its ability to assist more than 4.2 million vulnerable people. It also expressed concern over recent incidents in Jonglei State, where warehouses, health facilities, and other humanitarian infrastructure were damaged during clashes between government forces and opposition groups.
“Attacks on humanitarians are never acceptable,” said David Beasley, Executive Director, World Food Programme. “All parties must respect humanitarian workers and safeguard essential resources.”
Insecurity has forced WFP to pause its plan to preposition 12,000 metric tons of food ahead of the rainy season in Jonglei State. The suspension also affects partners who rely on WFP for distributing aid, including nutrition, school meals, and cash-based assistance.
The recent violence comes amid rising clashes between supporters of President Salva Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar, particularly in Jonglei and Upper Nile states. A United Nations report noted that at least 280,000 people have been displaced in Jonglei alone.
Humanitarian impact
WFP’s operations are crucial for emergency food and non-food assistance in South Sudan, the world’s newest country, formed in 2011. Conflict, poverty, and corruption have hindered development and humanitarian work since independence.
Aid suspensions may worsen food insecurity and restrict access to essential services. Meanwhile, Sudanese charities have already sought international support amid worsening conditions, highlighting the urgent need for continued humanitarian operations.
WFP’s warning aligns with earlier reports urging business leaders to address global hunger. The organisation emphasised that ensuring safe humanitarian passage is critical for delivering life-saving aid.
