By Matik Kueth
South Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has assured visitors that the country remains “calm and secure” despite recent travel advisories from several nations following an incident in Nasir.
Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, Amb. Apuk Mayen, Spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, addressed concerns stemming from the events of March 4 in Nasir County, Upper Nile State.
She described the Nasir incident as “an isolated event” resulting from a misunderstanding during a routine military redeployment.
“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 public that the situation in South Sudan remains calm and secure,” Mayen stated.
Mayen said the government has taken all necessary steps to restore order, adding that “the security forces are vigilant in their efforts to maintain peace throughout the nation.”
The ministry’s spokesperson reaffirmed President Kiir’s commitment to national peace and stability.
“Thus, the Ministry would like to reassure the public and anyone planning to travel to South Sudan that South Sudan is open and safe for visitors, investors, and development partners,” Mayen said.
Last week, a warning from the UN rights commission indicated that if the parties involved in the 2018 peace agreement do not address the deteriorating conditions, the country could face a full-scale war.
The UN also condemned this event, labeling it a potential war crime and highlighting the risk it poses to the 2018 peace accord.
On the other hand, on March 8, 2025, the United States ordered the evacuation of non-emergency government staff and recommended Americans not to visit the country due to a “continued security threat”.
This occurred after a UN helicopter was attacked in Nasir on March 7th, 2025, while attempting to evacuate soldiers, killing at least 27 people, including Major General Majur Dak of the SSPDF.
A tragedy, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) condemned the attack as a severe breach of international law and demanded accountability.
However, Amb. Mayen urged regional and international partners to “denounce the unlawful action and support South Sudan’s efforts to preserve peace and stability.”
On March 8, the African Union and the IGAD challenged South Sudan’s leaders to prioritize the safety of humanitarian and peacekeeping activities.
Nevertheless, in his address to the nation on March 7, President Kiir pledged not to return South Sudan to war.