South Sudan is once again at a critical juncture in its short but turbulent history. The country’s fragile stability has been further compromised by a series of escalating attacks, including a bombing on March 24, 2025, which targeted an SPLM-IO base in Wunaliet, a region just west of the capital, Juba. This bombing, together with subsequent attacks in Upper Nile and Jonglei, reveals a growing trend of localized violence that could destabilize the entire nation.
As a South Sudanese peace advocate, I am deeply concerned by the rapid erosion of the peace that was so hard-won. If immediate action is not taken by both our national leaders and the international community, South Sudan risks plunging back into full-scale conflict.
The political divide: A nation splintering apart
South Sudan’s unity government, established under the 2018 peace agreement, has been in place for years. However, the relationship between the ruling party and opposition forces, especially the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO), has been marred by deep distrust and ongoing disputes. The recent partial withdrawal of the SPLM-IO from the peace process—spurred by the arrest of key officials—has only intensified these divisions. The March 24 bombing is a clear indication that political disagreements are now being resolved through violence, rather than diplomacy.
The ongoing clashes between the SPLM-IO and government forces illustrate the inability of both sides to engage in meaningful dialogue. The international community has repeatedly called for the full implementation of the 2018 peace deal, but these calls have gone largely unheeded by South Sudan’s political elites. If the government and opposition parties cannot come to the table and settle their differences peacefully, South Sudan’s prospects for lasting peace will continue to dwindle.
Regional violence: A spreading crisis
While the Wunaliet bombing made headlines, it is part of a broader pattern of violence sweeping across the country.
Upper Nile: Escalation in Ulang County
On March 15, 2025, a bombing in Ulang County, Upper Nile State, targeted militia positions, further escalating tensions in a region that has long been plagued by conflict. This bombing not only disrupted militia operations but also exacerbated the displacement of civilians, further undermining the government’s ability to maintain control.
The Upper Nile region has historically been volatile, and as the attacks continue, the situation in the area becomes more unstable. The continued lack of effective governance in these areas has opened the door for militia groups to exert more influence, leaving civilians vulnerable to violence and displacement.
Jonglei: Insecurity in Akobo
Jonglei State, another region rife with ethnic and political tensions, witnessed a bombing on March 18, 2025, targeting a convoy in Akobo county. This attack caused significant damage to infrastructure and further fueled insecurity in the region. The government’s attempts to stabilize the area, including the appointment of a new governor, have had limited success.
The deep-rooted ethnic divisions and economic hardships in Jonglei are contributing factors to the ongoing violence. Without a comprehensive approach to address these grievances, the region will remain a hotbed of conflict.
The economic crisis: A nation struggling to survive
In addition to the violence, South Sudan is facing an economic crisis of staggering proportions. The country’s reliance on oil revenue has left it vulnerable to fluctuating global oil prices, and recent declines in production have worsened the situation. Inflation is soaring, and public discontent is growing, fueled by economic mismanagement and corruption.
Worse still, the government’s controversial taxation of humanitarian aid has exacerbated the plight of the country’s most vulnerable populations. As a result, international organizations are struggling to provide the necessary support, and public trust in both the government and humanitarian organizations is at an all-time low.
The international community has taken notice of South Sudan’s deteriorating situation. The United Nations has warned that the country is on the brink of renewed civil war, and Germany has temporarily closed its embassy in Juba due to escalating security risks.
A call for immediate action: What must be done?
Despite the grim outlook, it is not too late for South Sudan to turn the tide. However, immediate and decisive action is required on multiple fronts. The following solutions must be pursued:
1. Revitalize the peace process
The peace process in South Sudan is far from complete. There needs to be an immediate commitment from both President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar to reinvigorate dialogue. Mediators from the African Union and IGAD must facilitate these talks, and all political prisoners should be released. The full implementation of the 2018 peace agreement is essential for long-term stability.
2. Strengthen security measures
A nationwide ceasefire must be established and monitored by an independent body to prevent further violence. Additionally, the disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) of armed groups must be prioritized. Local peace initiatives are critical to addressing regional conflicts, especially in areas like Upper Nile and Jonglei, where ethnic tensions continue to fuel violence.
3. Address the economic crisis
South Sudan must diversify its economy and reduce its dependency on oil. The government should immediately halt the taxation of humanitarian aid and work with international partners to ensure relief reaches those who need it most. Strengthening governance and enforcing anti-corruption measures will help rebuild public trust in the government and stabilize the economy.
4. Increase international engagement
The international community must play a more active role in pushing for peace in South Sudan. Sanctions should be imposed on those actively obstructing the peace process, while more targeted humanitarian aid should be provided to address the country’s immediate needs. Regional and global actors should continue to put diplomatic pressure on both the South Sudanese government and opposition forces to move toward a peaceful resolution.
The time for action is now
South Sudan is on the brink of collapse, but it is not too late to prevent further escalation. With the right leadership, both from within the country and from the international community, South Sudan can still avoid another devastating civil war. However, this requires an immediate commitment to peace, security, and economic reform. The future of South Sudan depends on the actions we take today.
Malual Bol Kiir is a South Sudanese peace advocate. He can be reached at malualbk2005@gmail.com.
The views expressed in ‘opinion’ articles published by Radio Tamazuj are solely those of the writer. The veracity of any claims made is the responsibility of the author, not Radio Tamazuj.