South Sudan: Humanitarian Access Severely Restricted Amid Insecurity, 77 Incidents Reported in September 2026

In September 2026, South Sudan experienced 77 humanitarian access‑related incidents, including the deaths of three aid workers, abductions of three others, and relocation of thirteen staff due to insecurity. The violence was most intense in Upper Nile, Jonglei, Unity and Equatoria states. Specific attacks included killings of humanitarian staff in Nyirol and Twic East (Jonglei) on 11 and 12 September, a death in Rumbek Centre (Lakes) on 7 September, and abductions of two clinical officers in Yei County on 22 September and another staff member on 27 September. Armed groups also assaulted INGO staff in Ulang County, looted a primary school and health unit in Jur River, and harassed personnel in Ayod County, disrupting food distribution to 48,982 people and health, WASH and protection services for 17,000 people. Additional disruptions included forced relocation of health workers in Wetber Payam, interference with NGO licensing and recruitment, internet shutdowns, confiscation of supplies, and unauthorized checkpoints that imposed illegal fees. These events highlight the growing risks to humanitarian operations and the vulnerability of displaced and conflict‑affected populations.