Oct 7, 2020(Nyamilepedia) — The World Food Programme has reported that one of its workers is missing and three others suffered gunshot wounds when a boat convoy carrying food assistance from Bor to Melut and Malakal was attacked near Shambe North.
The boat convoy consisted of three cargo vessels and one speedboat. The three cargo vessels had food items as well as 13 crew members on board.
Speaking to media from South Sudan capital, Juba, the WFP Representative and the Country Director, Matthew Hollingworth, said their thoughts are with the missing crew member and they wish the wounded staffs a speedy recovery.
“Our thoughts are with the families of the missing crew member, and we wish a speedy recovery to those who suffered injuries,” said WFP Country Director Matthew Hollingworth.
The WFP has strongly condemned the attack on humanitarian workers and contractors, who risk their lives delivering much-needed food assistance to the most vulnerable people.
The programme called on all parties in South Sudan to provide unimpeded humanitarian access, respect for international law and conditions that allow humanitarian workers to carry out their jobs in safety.
“Their dedication will not be forgotten. We call on the South Sudanese authorities to hold those responsible for this unspeakable violence accountable for their actions.” He added.
The WFP country’s director went on to say that the food was intended for the people who were displaced after losing their homes and crops to floods.
According to WFP, over 800,000 people have been affected by the floods in South Sudan, on top of many months of sub-national violence and years of conflict that caused widespread hunger and malnutrition.
