South Sudan
is open and safe for visitors, investors, and development partners, the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has said.
The statement
comes as some western countries, particularly the United States, advise their
citizens against traveling to South Sudan due to insecurity.
Speaking to reporters, Amb. Apuk Ayuel Mayen, spokesperson, assured visitors of safety.
“The Ministry
of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of South Sudan
notes the recent travel advisories issued by some countries and would like to
reassure the international community that the situation in South Sudan remains
calm and secure,” Apuk stated.
On March 8,
2025, the Department of State ordered the departure of non-emergency U.S.
government employees from South Sudan amidst tensions.
Last week on
Friday, March 7, 2025, a United Nations helicopter conducting an evacuation
process in Nasir, in Upper Nile State, came under fire, resulting in the
killing of a crew member and serious injuries to two others.
In addition,
several members of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), including
an injured general, were killed during the attempt by the United Nations
Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) to extract them from the area, which was
requested by all parties.
This has
caused tensions in the country with the arrest of some political individuals.
She continues
that “The government has taken all necessary actions to restore order, and the
security forces are vigilant in their efforts to maintain peace throughout the
nation.”
Apuk said
President Kiir has reaffirmed his commitment to peace and stability.
“Thus, the
ministry would reassure the public and anyone planning to travel to South Sudan
that South Sudan is open and safe for visitors, investors, and development
partners.”
The ministry encourages
embassies accredited to South Sudan and countries to rely on official sources
for accurate information and wants to reiterate that South Sudan remains a
welcoming and secure destination.
“Furthermore,
the government calls on regional and international partners to denounce this
unlawful action and to support South Sudan's efforts to preserve peace and
stability,” she added.
