Armed Attack on Telecommunication Convoy in South Sudan Draws Condemnation from National Communication Authority
In a recent press statement released by the National Communication Authority (NCA) of the Republic of South Sudan, details emerged regarding the violent attack on a telecommunications convoy in the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA) on Thursday, May 23rd, 2024.
The Universal Service and Access Fund (USAF) dispatched a convoy comprising six trucks carrying telecommunications towers and construction materials to Gumruk. However, the convoy was ambushed by armed youth in the village of Eeret, Manyabol Payam, resulting in the physical assault of drivers and construction engineers, with one law enforcement personnel escorting the convoy tragically losing his life.
Mandated by section 73 of the National Communication Act, 2012, the USAF is responsible for developing and deploying communication services to ensure universal access for all residents of South Sudan, including those residing in remote and underserved areas.
Expressing firm condemnation of the violent attack, the NCA highlighted the critical need for communication services in the GPAA community, where many individuals currently lack access to basic amenities such as roads and reliable communication.
The NCA is actively engaging with local and national authorities to prioritize the safety of network engineers and experts working tirelessly to extend communication services to rural regions. Despite the challenges posed by such incidents, the NCA and its partners remain steadfast in their commitment to expanding connectivity in remote areas to support communities in need.
Furthermore, the NCA reassured mobile network operators (MNOs) that collaborative efforts with state governments are underway to enhance the safety and security of network personnel and infrastructure. Encouraging MNOs to intensify their efforts in expanding and improving service quality across the country, the NCA emphasized its dedication to enhancing connectivity in rural regions nationwide.
