World News in Brief: Aid convoy attacked in South Sudan, Ebola threatens livelihoods, UN deplores death penalty
The convoy, operated by the John Dau Foundation, was transporting humanitarian staff returning from an Action Against Hunger training exercise when it came under attack on Monday along the route between Payuel Payam and Pajut, in Duk county.Four others were injured, and several civilians were also reportedly killed or wounded.“Humanitarian workers dedicate their lives to saving others and reaching people in desperate need. They must never be a target,” said UN Humanitarian Coordinator Ramanathan Balakrishnan, who called for a prompt, impartial investigation and for those responsible to be brought to justiceGrowing dangersThe killings bring the number of humanitarian workers and contractors killed in South Sudan this year to 29, underscoring the growing dangers facing them while delivering lifesaving assistance.UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric described the attack as “unacceptable” and called for a prompt investigation to ensure those responsible are held accountable.The attack comes as the UN peacekeeping mission, UNMISS, warned of worsening violence across the country.More than 760 civilians were killed between January and March, an 89 per cent increase from the previous quarter, while conflict-related sexual violence also rose sharply, according to a report released by the UN Mission on Tuesday.UNMISS chief Anita Kiki Gbeho urged all parties to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law.DR Congo: Ebola outbreak threatens over a million livelihoodsThe Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) could push nearly one million more people into poverty, threatening jobs, livelihoods and economic stability across the region, the UN Development Programme (UNDP) warned on Tuesday.The agency estimates the outbreak could put 300,000 jobs at risk and cost African economies up to $3.6 billion if the crisis spreads and broader regional shocks intensify.
