UNICEF Condemns Killing of Children in South Sudan’s Abiemnhom, Calls for Immediate De-escalation.
Juba:
The UNICEF has strongly condemned a brutal attack in Abiemnhom County in the Ruweng Administrative Area of South Sudan that left three children dead and several others injured, as violence continues to escalate in the conflict-affected region.
According to UNICEF, the assault occurred on March 1, 2026, and has had devastating consequences for civilians, particularly children and women. At least 13 injured children are currently receiving treatment in hospital, while local authorities say the overall death toll has risen to around 180 people.
Officials also reported that the violence has forced more than 4,000 residents to flee their homes, creating a growing humanitarian crisis in the area.
Children Among the Hardest Hit
In a statement issued from Juba, UNICEF condemned the killings and described the attack as another tragic sign of the worsening security situation in the country.
The organization said innocent civilians, especially children, continue to bear the brunt of ongoing violence. The clashes have forced many families to flee their homes, leaving children without stable access to health care, education, and protection services.
UNICEF warned that the escalating conflict is severely disrupting essential services and exposing already vulnerable children to further harm.
Emergency Response Underway
UNICEF said it has begun responding to the crisis by delivering emergency health and nutrition supplies to affected communities in collaboration with humanitarian partners working on the ground.
The agency emphasized that immediate humanitarian assistance is critical to support displaced families and ensure that injured children receive the medical care they need.
Call for Peace and Protection of Civilians
The organization also urged all parties involved in the conflict to immediately de-escalate hostilities and recommit to peace efforts.
UNICEF called on the warring sides to respect the country’s peace agreement and fully comply with international humanitarian and human rights law, particularly the protections afforded to civilians and children during armed conflict.
“The children of South Sudan deserve a safe and secure future where their rights are upheld,” the statement said.
Growing Humanitarian Concerns
South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, has faced years of political instability and armed conflict, leaving millions of people dependent on humanitarian assistance. Aid agencies warn that renewed violence in areas such as Abiemnhom threatens to deepen the already fragile humanitarian situation.
UNICEF reiterated that protecting children must remain a priority and urged all parties to ensure that civilians, schools, hospitals, and humanitarian workers are safeguarded during the conflict.
