Juba, Tearfund South Sudan Security Briefing

Wednesday, 07 February 2024

Juba City map

TEARFUND CITY RISK RATING

Travel

Medium Travel Risk

CITY SECURITY OVERVIEW

Juba is the capital of both South Sudan and Central Equatoria state. The security environment in the city is slightly
more stable than in more remote areas of South Sudan.

Thefts targeting compounds used by foreign organisations have been reported. Self-driving is not recommended.
There are occasional outbreaks of social unrest linked to political, communal or socio-economic issues.
Checkpoints around the city can be expected, particularly amid any periods of heightened political tensions. During
normal circumstances, checkpoints are not present in the city during daytime hours, but they are in place after
19.00 (local time). While there is no official curfew imposed by the authorities, foreign organisations and nationals
are recommended to stop movement from 19.00-07.00.

ORIENTATION

Although Juba is a small city, we advise against walking (except very short distances such as to an adjacent
building), especially after dark. Juba can be roughly divided into three areas – Juba Town, the government
ministries to the north-west of the city centre, and the Nile camps to the east. Juba Town is where most banks are
located, as well as foreign exchange bureau and the police headquarters. There are two main markets –
KonyoKonyo and the New Customs market – which attract huge crowds both locals and foreigners. Only a narrow
two-way bridge over the White Nile connects Juba with the main road towards the south (A43 - Uganda) and the
east (Kenya).
Juba
CRIME

Juba continues to experience high crime rates linked to abject socio-economic conditions in the country. Robberies
and thefts occur regularly, and are most common after nightfall. Local nationals are more commonly affected
though,on occasion, foreign nationals and companies have been targeted. Residential burglaries – some involving
violence – can impact expatriate or foreign visitors' compounds in the city. Neighbourhoods where NGO workers,
foreign business professionals and diplomats work and reside – including Tongping and Juba town – are generally
more prone to opportunistic crime, due to the perceived wealth of foreign nationals. However, violent compound
break-ins are reported to be more common on the outskirts of Juba, as they are considered easy targets by the
criminals due to their isolation.

Security checkpoints and illegal roadblocks are often mounted at night, where foreigners can be subject to extra
scrutiny and sometimes fall prey to robbery. Some security checkpoints may be manned by intoxicated personnel
and visitors may be solicited for a bribe. Such occurrences highlight the utility of using a dedicated security provider
to ease passage through checkpoints. Travel after dark in Juba should be avoided. Criminal activity may increase
at night due to corruption and the ineffectiveness of the security forces in some areas.

Hijacking of vehicles carrying NGO staff is a serious concern. Such type of crime is premeditated and assailants
are likely to identify and tail potential targets, gaining an understanding of their routine, before staging an attack.
There is also a possibility of collusion between the driver and attackers, underscoring the need to use proven and
trusted local drivers or logistics providers.

Systemic economic problems have the potential to lead to heightened crime rates. Regional food production and
supply chains have been negatively impacted by chronic flooding, a locust swarm and the effects of COVID-19,
which have brought about food insecurity and spiralling prices in South Sudan. Such developments could lead to
a further increase in crime rates as more vulnerable sections of society resort to crime to alleviate hunger.

TERRORISM

There is no history of terrorist attacks in Juba, and there are no known transnational extremist groups operating in
the country. However, some armed groups may possess the intent and capability to attack foreign commercial, UN
or other NGO personnel, though any violence directed against such targets would much more likely be perpetrated
by criminal gangs as opposed to terror groups with a political agenda.

SOCIAL UNREST

Juba is generally free from serious unrest as the security forces maintain a significant presence. However, protests
and demonstrations occasionally turn violent and the police can employ heavy-handed measures, including gunfire,
that can pose indirect risks to bystanders. A civil society is beginning to form, and the frequency and scale of social
activism may increase if the country's political problems deteriorate into an even more serious socio-economic
crisis.

The security forces have been known to crackdown on anti-government demonstrations and political dissent.
Moreover, the National Security Service (NSS) is known to engage in intimidation, harassment and arrest of
activists, resulting in protests being a rarity in the city.

TROUBLE SPOTS

Night-time roadblocks across Juba present a potential opportunity for harassment and for the solicitation of bribes,
at best, and robbery at worst; night travel should be avoided, and travellers should restrict movement to secure
accommodation.
Neighbourhoods where business professionals, NGO staff and foreign diplomats work and reside may be prone to
targeted crime due to the perceived wealth of international staff. The Tomping and Juba Town areas of the city are
more prone to criminal activity.

SEEKING HELP

Due to a lack of resources – including vehicles, radios and other equipment – the South Sudan Police Service
(SSPS) is unable to provide prompt and efficient law enforcement services. Corruption is pervasive within the police
force. Local security providers, whose support is strongly advised for all journeys in and to Juba, should be the first
point of contact if any trouble is encountered.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Contact 0920795989 Tearfund Security

Juba
PORT OF ENTRY

Airport code: JUB

Juba International Airport is located five miles (8km) north-east of the city centre. Several airlines operate services
between the facility and Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), Dubai (UAE), Entebbe (Uganda) and Nairobi (Kenya).

The airport is very basic and security arrangements are inadequate. Metal detectors frequently break down, and
security baggage checks are manual and very cursory when the scanners are inoperable.

TO CITY CENTRE

Foreign nationals and business travellers should prearrange to be met on arrival by a local contact whose identity
can be verified, as there are no official taxis. Unofficial taxis may be present in front of the airport; however, these
are unsuitable for travel.

WALKING

Walking should be avoided, unless conducted over very short distances (i.e. to an adjacent building) during daylight
hours. Walking at night should be completely avoided due to poorly lit streets and the heightened risk of crime
outside daylight hours. People should not travel alone but be accompanied by a trusted local contact or experienced
guide at all times.

CAR HIRE

Self-driving is not recommended in Juba unless travellers are very familiar with local conditions and intend to
remain within the confines of the city. Paved roads are limited in Juba. Driving may be problematic with the unlit
streets, both official and illegal checkpoints, freely roaming livestock, drunk drivers and pedestrians ignoring traffic
rules. The rainy season (April-November) may further worsen driving conditions.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Public transport is limited, basic and unsafe as roads and vehicles are poorly maintained, making it unsuitable for
business travellers.

TAXIS

There are no official taxis in Juba; we recommend the use of a dedicated hire car and driver for the duration of
visits.
STANDING TRAVEL ADVICE
Juba (MEDIUM)

 Business-critical travel to Juba is possible with enhanced security precautions.

 Travel to Juba requires a robust and resilient local assistance network (logistical, security as well as
medical) and the ability to stand fast for periods up to seven days in the event of any instability coupled
with a prolonged airport closure.
 A full itinerary-specific briefing on the prevailing threats is necessary prior to travel. Formal security training
is recommended for long-term deployments.
 Pre-arrange local transport (four-wheel drive (4WD)), ideally through a vetted, local security provider. We
advise against self-driving, standard hotel transfers. Due to armed crime and illegal checkpoints, foreign
nationals are advised to stop all movement after 19.00 (local time).
 Travellers require access to local knowledge, language support and the latest locally sourced threat
intelligence.
 Arrange accommodation in secure compounds, hotels or villas. Essential physical security features should
be prioritised in selecting accommodation, such as alarm systems and security guards.
 Avoid all movement on foot and do not take photographs in public areas as this is frowned upon by the
authorities.
 Carry tried, tested and spare communications systems at all times. Satellite phones can be used as back
up, though visitors should ensure compliance with local legislation, which may require the device to be
registered with the authorities.
 Be aware of potential scrutiny of foreign nationals by the local authorities. Maintain a low profile and project
neutrality, where possible.
 Carry all necessary documentation and comply with all security force directives.

Travel risk managers

 Assess the business requirements of any trip to South Sudan; keep itineraries flexible and be prepared to
postpone travel at short notice.
 Ensure employees receive an itinerary-specific briefing prior to travel.
 Security arrangements for travellers should include access to local knowledge, language support, the
latest locally sourced threat intelligence, journey management support (including planning assistance and
some form of vehicle tracking), security as well as medical emergency response capabilities.
 Depending on the size of the group, its profile (nationality and experience) and length of stay, consider
the deployment of a dedicated, medically trained and equipped security consultant.
 Ensure you can locate and communicate with all staff in South Sudan. Ensure travellers check-in with
management-nominated points of contact at convenient times.
 Ensure travellers have access to reliable communication systems, including satellite phones, and
understand whom to contact in the event of a security or medical emergency.
 Understand how to arrange additional security and medical support for your travellers if required.

RISK ZONES

Juba: MEDIUM

Juba's security environment is more stable than other parts of the country. This is mostly attributed to the high
security force presence. The city was previously affected by the civil conflicts in December 2013 and July 2016,
though its security environment quickly stabilised following both. However, renewed attempts to establish a joint
SPLA-SPLM–IO police force as per the conditions of the 2015 and 2018 peace agreements will increase the risk
of military confrontation between the two factions when the agreement is effected; the 2018 Revitalised Agreement
for the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), depending on how it is interpreted, stipulates that
the security of Juba should be entrusted with a unified force comprised of both Kiir's and Machar's fighters, which
could reignite conflict, as demonstrated in 2016 when the same exercise was implemented in Juba. Additionally,
political rivalries ahead of planned general elections also stipulated under the agreement could likewise undermine
Juba's security environment.
Criminal activity is a concern. Looting, muggings and burglaries occur regularly and can target compounds used
by foreign organisations and staff. The continued deterioration in economic conditions has resulted in widespread
shortages of food and essential goods and will likely continue to drive criminal acts.

Juba

Embassy of Canada

Former JDO Compound, Opposite New Sudan Palace Hotel, Airport Avenue
Juba
South Sudan

Phone: +211 955 196 936

Second phone: +211 957 114 199
Third phone: +211 956 123 933
Email: JUBA-G@international.gc.ca

Embassy of China

Beijing Juba Hotel (Opposite of Radio and Broadcasting Corp Juba), PO Box 249
Juba
South Sudan

Phone: +211 977232333

Second phone: +211 91 238 6010
Fax: +211 95 624 0887
Email: chinaemb_ss@mfa.gov.cn
Website: http://ss.chineseembassy.org/chn/

Embassy of France

EU Compound, Kolo Road, Thomping Area

Juba
South Sudan

Phone: +211 955 99 99 62

Second phone: + 249 957127549
Fax: + 249 955587332

Embassy of Germany

EU Compound, Kololo Road

Juba
South Sudan

Phone: +211 956 00 80 21

Embassy of India

Plot No. 209-245, Block 3-K (South), Juba Na Bari, Adjacent to the National Elections Commission,
Juba
South Sudan
Phone: +211 922 458 007
Second phone: +211 922 000 188
Third phone: +211 925 502 025
Email: admn.juba@mea.gov.in; hoc.juba@mea.gov.in

Embassy of Japan

Plot No. 514, 3-K, Tongping

Juba
South Sudan

Phone: +211 956 481 145

Embassy of Netherlands

Airport Drive, Opposite the New Sudan Palace Hotel,

Juba
South Sudan

Phone: +211 9 12 11 79 61
Second phone: +211 9 12 12 01 32

Embassy of Norway

Unity Avenue Hai Malakal

Juba
South Sudan

Phone: +211 959 000 257

Second phone: +211 920 900 530
Email: emb.juba@mfa.no
Website: http://www.norway-south-sudan.org/

Consulate of South Africa

House 873, Southern Block K-3-K, South Tompink Area

Juba
South Sudan

Phone: +249 912 169992

Email: juba@foreign.gov.za

Representative Office of Sweden

Joint Embassy Compound, Airport Road, opposite to the New Sudan Palace Hotel
Juba
South Sudan

Phone: +211 920 900 530

Embassy of Turkey

Block 3K South, Plots No.880-881, Hai Matar,

Juba
South Sudan
Phone: +211 955 721 817
Email: embassy.juba@mfa.gov.tr

Embassy of United Kingdom

EU Compound, Thomping Area

Juba
South Sudan

Phone: +211 912 323 712

Second phone: +211 959 200 010
Third phone: + 249 955584193
Email: ukinsouthsudan@dfid.gov.uk

Embassy of United States

Kololo Road, adjacent to the EU compound

South Sudan

Phone: +211 912 138 622

Email: usembassyjuba@state.gov
Website: http://southsudan.usembassy.gov/

Juba

2024

01 May May Day

Student/labour demonstrations can be expected. If the holiday falls on a rest day, it may be observed on the next
working day.

16 May Sudan People's Liberation Army Day

30 Jun National Salvation Revolution Day

09 Jul Independence Day

Heightened security measures and associated disruption should be expected on the day.

30 Jul Martyr's Day

01 Dec World AIDS Day

If the event falls on a weekend, the next working day is declared a public holiday.

25 Dec Christmas Day

In some countries, if this holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, a public holiday is declared for the following
Monday.

2025

01 Jan New Year's Day

In many countries, if this holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, a public holiday is declared for the following
Monday.

07 Jan Coptic Christmas

Although this is not an official holiday, it is widely observed in Coptic communities.

09 Jan Peace Agreement Day