“Terrorist attacks in South Sudan can’t be ruled out” The advisory continued
London, U. K.
March 10, 2022 — A travel advisory report that was released today, March 10, 2022, by the United Kingdom through its Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) is advising the citizens to avoid all travels to South Sudan citing poor COVID-19 regulation, insecurity and possibility of terrorism.
“Serious criminality in Juba, and other urban areas, particularly during the hours of darkness, is also a regular concern. A deterioration in the security situation remains possible, and could be prompted by a number of factors including developments in the fragile economy, the ongoing peace process, or a more securitised response to coronavirus (COVID-19).” U.K Authorities said in the report released today
The advisory statement, which was meant specifically for the citizens of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and other western allies, warns those who decide to proceed against the advisory to call the Embassy in Kenya should they need any assistance from the U.K government warning that their office in Juba has no consulate.
“Consular support is severely limited in South Sudan. The British Embassy in Juba does not have a consular section. If you are in South Sudan and need urgent help from the UK Government, contact the British High Commission in Nairobi.” Part of the statement reads.
“You should make sure you have comprehensive contingency plans that don’t rely on support from the Embassy, including a stock of essential supplies and up-to-date travel documents and visas. If you’re concerned about your safety, you should contact the FCDO on +44 207 008 5000.” The statement continued.
According to the U.K. Authorities, those who choose to travel to South Sudan must exercise caution and vigilance at all times and must avoid traveling after sun set.
“If you choose to travel to South Sudan against FCDO advice, exercise caution and vigilance at all times and avoid any travel during the hours of darkness.” part of the statement reads.
In regarding to security situation in South Sudan, U.K citizens are reminded to remain vigilant, monitor local media and stay in safe location, adding that terrorism can’t be ruled out.
“You should be vigilant of the local security situation, monitor the local media, and stay in a safe location. Advice to travellers remains that you should avoid all protests and large gatherings and follow the instructions of local authorities and security services. Most international organisations in South Sudan employ a security manager to monitor the situation and keep employees safe.” part of the report reads.
The U.K. Authorities acknowledges that a relative peace is being maintained; however, the U.K. citizens must be aware of possible repeat of July 2016 and December 2013, saying that should security deteriorate to that extend major roads to the rest of the region and South Sudan airspace might be closed or restricted.
“In the event of a serious deterioration in the security situation, similar to those of July 2016 and December 2013, routes into and out of South Sudan may be blocked, Juba airport may be closed or inaccessible, and flights may be suspended at short notice. Regional developments may also increase the unpredictability of infrastructure and transport, as happened in April 2019 when events in Sudan led to the temporary closure of South Sudan’s airspace.” The U.K. Authorities report.
“The main road connecting Juba to Uganda is extremely dangerous, with regular reports of accidents and attacks on vehicles by armed groups. See Safety and Security. The border has now reopened following the lifting of restrictions in place in the region in response to COVID-19. A negative COVID-19 test certificate is required at Uganda’s land borders issued no more than 72 hours prior.” U.K. Authority advisory report said.
South Sudan has been ranked among the most insecure and corrupt countries in the world for the last 8 years and the authorities are aware; however, little has been done to change the narratives.
South Sudan administration under President Kiir has tried to hire western firms to clean up its tainted competency through lobbying but the stakeholders lack political will to let go their grudges and to implement the peace agreement in letter and spirit, contrary to their diplomatic efforts.
