Aid workers released unharmed in South Sudan

Published on

April 30, 2018

NEW YORK/JUBA, South Sudan, 30 April 2018 – Ten aid workers who had been detained by an armed group since Wednesday, 25 April, outside of South Sudan’s Yei town were released today. The group returned safely to Juba. They have undergone medical checks and are said to be in good health.

“It’s a great relief to have our colleagues safely back with us,” said Henrietta H. Fore, UNICEF Executive Director. “We are grateful to everyone who helped in securing their release, and we again call on all parties to this conflict to not target or obstruct aid staff from carrying out their life-saving work. Incidents such as this must end.”

The aid staff, including two from UNICEF, went missing while driving from Yei to Tore where they were to carry out an assessment of the humanitarian needs.

The aid workers will shortly be reunited with their families and will be provided with psychosocial support and counselling.

About UNICEF

UNICEF is the world’s leading humanitarian organization focused on children. We work in the most challenging areas to provide protection, healthcare and immunizations, education, safe water and sanitation and nutrition. As part of the United Nations, our unrivaled reach spans more than 190 countries and territories, ensuring we are on the ground to help the most disadvantaged children. While part of the UN system, UNICEF relies entirely on voluntary donations to finance our life-saving work. Please visit unicef.ca and follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

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