Transport of goods to South Sudan resumes

By Sammy Jakaa

Kenya: Long distance transporters have started delivering cargo to South Sudan after peace was partially restored.

The transport companies say tranquility witnessed in Juba has encouraged transportation of goods that include relief food and petroleum products.

Delivery of goods had been halted since last December when soldiers loyal to the former Vice President Riek Machar attempted to topple President Salva Kiir’s Government.

Multiple Solutions Malaba Branch Manager Deo Otia said their company had started delivering cargo to the country.

Mr Otia said they had witnessed an increase in other cargo trucks heading to South Sudan.

He, however, pointed out that many of the transporters were still cautious about taking cargo destined for South Sudan as many had not been reassured of their safety.

The transporters said they could not however go past Juba to deliver cargo as there were areas still heavily affected by the violence.

Peter Migwi, a clearing agent, said normal services had only resumed to Juba, adding that he had not cleared any truck that was going beyond.

Mr Migwi said he had cleared seven trucks that were transporting fuel to South Sudan.

“We have started transporting fuel to the country and particularly the capital Juba. It is hard for trucks to go beyond Juba as that is where most violence had been reported, making many transporters fear,” he said.