The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has announced that its peacekeepers will remain in Akobo to continue protecting civilians despite an evacuation directive issued by the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) ahead of planned military operations in the area.
In a press release issued on March 9 from Juba, the mission said it is engaging with national, state, and local authorities following the March 6 announcement by the army instructing civilians in Akobo town and nearby villages to relocate.
The same order also directed United Nations peacekeepers and humanitarian partners to vacate the area within 72 hours.
UNMISS warned that any military activity around the town could expose thousands of civilians, including internally displaced persons, to serious risks.
“Any military operations in and around Akobo gravely endanger the safety and security of civilians,” said Anita Kiki Gbeho, Officer-in-Charge of UNMISS.
“Therefore, we rely on the assurances provided by all parties that they will take every possible measure to protect communities.”
Despite the directive, the UN mission reaffirmed that its peacekeepers will maintain their presence in the area as part of their mandate to protect civilians.
“For its part, UNMISS reaffirms that its peacekeepers will remain in Akobo, providing a protective presence for civilians,” the mission said in the statement.
The mission also stressed that the safety and security of United Nations personnel, facilities, and assets must be respected at all times as the situation unfolds.
The evacuation order came as the SSPDF prepares for military operations targeting opposition forces believed to be operating in and around Akobo, located in Jonglei State.
UNMISS called on all stakeholders involved in the conflict to prioritize the protection of civilians and to adhere to international humanitarian principles, warning that escalating hostilities in populated areas could lead to severe humanitarian consequences.
Akobo, which borders Ethiopia, has previously experienced waves of displacement due to insecurity, with many residents often seeking refuge across the border during periods of fighting.
The UN mission said it will continue dialogue with authorities and other partners to ensure the protection of vulnerable communities while maintaining its peacekeeping responsibilities in the area.
