The South Sudan NGO Forum on Saturday strongly condemned the violence against humanitarian actors, including the most recent attack in Maban, saying it reduces aid workers’ capacity to implement essential services and activities and leaves the most vulnerable people at greater risk of hunger and disease.

 “Such senseless attacks hamper efforts by aid agencies and their staff who are working tirelessly in a challenging environment to help the most vulnerable people in need of life-saving assistance,” said Dr Pius Ojara, Director of South Sudan NGO Forum. “The increase in attacks on aid workers’ is wrong, unwarranted and we are extremely disappointed.”

Reports indicate that the protests in Maban started when a protest over employment opportunities turned violent.

There was forceful entry into UNHCR and 14 other compounds by approximately 2,000 youth that resulted into looting, arson, destruction of vehicles, structures and other humanitarian assets and lifesaving supplies including medicines. While there was no loss of life, aid workers have been traumatised by the Maban attacks.

 The attacks have forced aid agencies to suspend services except for life-saving and critical activities to communities around Maban. Services will continue in the 4 refugee camps hosting 141,548 Sudanese refugees. At least 390 humanitarian workers have been successfully evacuated from Maban.

“We would like to thank the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service for coordinating with the NGO Forum and affected agencies and ensuring a quick response in the relocation of personnel from Maban. The NGO Forum is also grateful to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan for providing protection during the evacuation process,” said Dr Ojara.

 The NGO Forum called upon local authorities to investigate the incident and ensure that organisers and perpetrators are identified and are held accountable for the attacks.

 The NGO Forum asked for assurance from government for protection of humanitarian workers, assets and supplies in Maban.