South Sudan has removed recently imposed taxes and fees that led to the suspension of U.N. food airdrops following an appeal from the United Nations. The taxes, introduced in February, included charges for electronic cargo tracking, security escort fees, and fuel. While the government has removed these new taxes, charges on services provided by firms contracted by the U.N peacekeeping mission in South Sudan will still apply. Finance Minister Awow Daniel Chuang stated that these companies are profiting and are subjected to applicable tax.
The pausing of airdrops had deprived 60,000 people living in areas inaccessible by road of much-needed food in March, with the number expected to rise to 135,000 by the end of May, as reported by the U.N. Humanitarian Affairs Agency. The new measures would have increased the mission’s monthly operational costs to $339,000. The U.N. food airdrops are crucial in providing food for over 16,300 people every month in South Sudan. The suspension of these airdrops has a significant impact on vulnerable populations who rely on humanitarian assistance for survival.
The taxes and charges imposed by South Sudan will also affect the nearly 20,000-strong U.N. peacekeeping mission in the country. The mission is reviewing all of its activities, including patrols, construction of police stations, schools, health care centers, and educational support. This could further complicate the delivery of humanitarian aid to the millions of people in South Sudan who require protection and assistance. The country has faced internal conflict and an influx of refugees from neighboring Sudan, adding to the challenges of providing aid to those affected by crises.
The U.N. has not provided any immediate comment on when the food airdrops could resume in South Sudan. The government’s decision to remove the controversial taxes and fees is a positive step towards ensuring that vital humanitarian assistance can continue to reach those in need. With millions of people in the country requiring protection and aid, the resumption of food airdrops is crucial for preventing further suffering and addressing the humanitarian crisis in South Sudan. The international community will be closely monitoring the situation to ensure that aid delivery remains unhindered and effective in reaching vulnerable populations.
