UN Urges South Sudan to Reverse New Taxes and Charges, Suspending Aid for 60,000 People
The UN is urging South Sudan to repeal new taxes and charges that have caused the suspension of UN food airdrops for approximately 60,000 people in inaccessible areas, with the number expected to reach 135,000 by May. The UN Humanitarian Affairs Agency stated that the pause in airdrops in March had left these individuals without food, and the new charges would increase operational costs by $339,000 monthly, enough to feed over 16,300 people.
The new charges, introduced in February, include electronic cargo tracking, security escort fees, and fuel taxes.
Anita Kiki Gbeho, the UN humanitarian coordinator for South Sudan, expressed concern that limited funds are being spent on bureaucratic impediments rather than saving lives.
The UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan, consisting of nearly 20,000 personnel, is facing financial challenges due to new taxes and charges imposed by the South Sudan government.
The UN is reviewing its activities, including patrols, construction projects, and educational support, in response to these financial constraints.
The government had previously promised to remove the new fees but has not provided a written commitment since February.
Approximately 9 million people out of South Sudan's population of 12.5 million require protection and humanitarian assistance.
Additionally, the country is experiencing an influx of refugees from the war in neighboring Sudan, adding complexity to the humanitarian situation.
Anita Kiki Gbeho, the UN humanitarian coordinator for South Sudan, expressed concern that limited funds are being spent on bureaucratic impediments rather than saving lives.
The UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan, consisting of nearly 20,000 personnel, is facing financial challenges due to new taxes and charges imposed by the South Sudan government.
The UN is reviewing its activities, including patrols, construction projects, and educational support, in response to these financial constraints.
The government had previously promised to remove the new fees but has not provided a written commitment since February.
Approximately 9 million people out of South Sudan's population of 12.5 million require protection and humanitarian assistance.
Additionally, the country is experiencing an influx of refugees from the war in neighboring Sudan, adding complexity to the humanitarian situation.
Translation:
Translated by AI
