United Nations peacekeepers have withdrawn from their temporary operating base in Akobo County, Jonglei State, in South Sudan following months of deployment aimed at protecting civilians, the UN mission confirmed.
The withdrawal, carried out over the past week-end, comes against a backdrop of persistent insecurity in the area and widening financial constraints facing the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
UNMISS spokesperson Priyanka Chowdhury said the mission will continue civilian protection efforts through regular patrols and sustained engagement with local stakeholders, despite the closure of the base.
She noted that the closure had been delayed due to deteriorating security conditions, adding that UNMISS maintained a protective presence while supporting humanitarian operations, including food aid, water and sanitation services, and health assistance for displaced communities.
Akobo County had witnessed clashes between government forces and opposition fighters earlier in 2026, displacing thousands of civilians, though some residents have recently begun returning. The withdrawal also reflects broader financial pressure on UNMISS, which has faced a budget reduction of around 15%, contributing to operational cuts of up to 30%, as the UN system grapples with a liquidity crisis.