Security Alert – Increasing Violence in Upper Nile and Unity States

THE EMBASSY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA IN JUBA IS TRANSMITTING THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION THROUGH THE AMERICAN LIAISON NETWORK AS A PUBLIC SERVICE TO U.S. CITIZENS IN SOUTH SUDAN. PLEASE DISSEMINATE THIS MESSAGE TO ALL U.S. CITIZENS IN YOUR ORGANIZATION OR NEIGHBORHOOD.

September 8, 2022

Security Alert – Increasing Violence in Upper Nile and Unity States

The Embassy is aware of a significant increase in violence, including fighting between armed groups in some areas of Upper Nile, Jonglei, and Unity states.  Fighting is reported in Malakal, Tonga town and nearby areas.  All Americans are advised not to travel to the affected areas.  If you are there now, you should consider departing if it is safe to do so.

In addition, the current Level 4 Travel Advisory is the highest level issued by the Department of State and advises U.S. citizens not to travel to South Sudan.  The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in South Sudan.  Due the critical crime threat in South Sudan, U.S. government personnel are subject to strict movement controls within Juba, and official travel outside the city is extremely limited.  Family members cannot accompany U.S. government employees who work in South Sudan.

While visiting South Sudan, or for any other travel outside of the United States, the U.S. Embassy recommends and requests that all U.S. citizens enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.