At least two people have been killed and 17 others injured in clashes between government forces and local youth along the Kapoeta–Ngauro Road in Eastern Equatoria State, South Sudan. The clashes occurred two days before October 29, 2026, and have disrupted movement between Kapoeta and Ngauro, a busy trading center and administrative hub. The road blockage has raised concerns over food shortages, access to medical supplies, and civilian safety.
David Lino Lochungai, the youth leader in Ngauro Local Government Administrative Area, reported that the road remained impassable as of October 29. He stated that authorities had advised against vehicle movements between Ngauro and Kapoeta until the route was declared safe. Lochungai had to take a lengthy alternative route to reach his destination in Torit, highlighting the challenges posed by the road closure.
The continued closure of the vital road is preventing the movement of essential goods into Ngauro, where residents rely heavily on supplies transported through Kapoeta. Lochungai warned that the disruption is worsening an already difficult humanitarian situation, as communities contend with drought and limited local food production. He expressed concerns that if the road does not open soon, there may be starvation in the area.
Abdallahaziz Chol, the Acting Police Commissioner in the state, confirmed that clashes had occurred between government forces and youth along the Kapoeta–Ngauro highway. He stated that the confrontation followed a road blockage and linked the wider dispute to an earlier incident involving two vehicles belonging to a Chinese company, which had been ambushed approximately two weeks earlier.
The authorities have not provided a detailed public account of the reported casualties, and it remains unclear whether the road has since reopened. Wodcan Lazarous Saviour, executive director of SPIDO, a peacebuilding and justice-focused organization, condemned the violence and called on state and national authorities to act urgently to protect civilians.
Saviour emphasized that insecurity is affecting women, children, and other residents, while restricting movement and disrupting people's livelihoods. He urged those involved to abandon armed confrontation and pursue peaceful solutions, calling on the authorities to provide a safe environment for residents and urging the parties to address any grievances through dialogue rather than violence.
The situation remains tense, with residents and traders stranded on both sides of the blocked road. The closure has significant implications for the local population, who rely on the road for access to essential goods and services. Efforts are needed to resolve the dispute and reopen the road to prevent further humanitarian crises.
Key points
- Clashes between government forces and local youth have killed two people and injured 17 others along the Kapoeta–Ngauro Road in South Sudan's Eastern Equatoria State.
- The road blockage has disrupted movement and raised concerns over food shortages, access to medical supplies, and civilian safety.
- Authorities and stakeholders are urged to act urgently to protect civilians and address grievances through dialogue to prevent further violence and humanitarian crises.
