Travel Insurance for South Sudan

Country Risk Code: Extreme

Many people have been killed in South Sudan since violence broke out in 2013. Fights between armed groups have continued across the country since then. Many civilians and foreigners have been killed since the beginning of the violence. Hence, the reason most governments advise their citizens to avoid going to the country. Even if you have a reason to visit South Sudan, having the right travel insurance coverage is crucial.

Potential Risks for South Sudan

The security environment in the country is volatile and could get worse with little warning. A lack of law and order throughout the country, including the border cities, threatens the security of foreigners. Armed conflict, military action, tribal and other violence make the border towns a dangerous place to visit.
Without prior notice and insufficient information, authorities can set up roadblocks, impose curfews, and take other security measures. Also, the rise in Covid-19 cases has increased threats against UN personnel both physically and on social media. There is an increase in anti-foreigner sentiment across the country.
Terrorist attacks can occur unexpectedly in places like hotels, restaurants, airports, government buildings, and other public places. Kidnapping, murder, shootings, armed robbery attacks, carjacking, and sexual assault are widespread throughout South Sudan, including the capital city of Juba.
Also, you need to prepare for floods during rainy seasons. It can lead to disruption of services and create disease outbreaks. Furthermore, extreme temperatures are typical in South Sudan.

Health Risks

South Sudan has poor health care facilities. Covid-19 remains a health challenge in the country. There have been cases of Ebola outbreaks in certain parts of the country. Polio outbreaks are widespread across the nation.
Yellow fever, HIV/AIDS are among the primary health issues within the nation. Other health challenges include typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, including waterborne, foodborne, and parasitic infections. In Juba, the country's capital, medical facilities are basic facilities.
But, other parts of the country have limited facilities. Therefore, if you are ill or injured, you need medical evacuation.

Local Laws

The legal system in the country is basic; there are penalties for criminal charges. These penalties include long jail time or death penalties. It would be best to get legal advice from a professional if you have a legal problem, especially in legal matters.
Drug trafficking is illegal in South Sudan. Punishments for this offense include long jail time and death penalties.
You are not allowed to take photos, even with a mobile phone, without the Ministry of Information's permission.
Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in South Sudan. Therefore, LGBT travelers can be harassed by members of the public or police.

Travel Tips for Foreigners

• Before you step into the plane on your way to South Sudan, you need a certified PCR test showing you tested negative for Covid-19. This test must not be more than four days old.
• Landmines and other unexploded war materials are a danger to visitors across the country. Therefore, it is crucial to use only main roads and paths labeled as safe by a certified de-mining authority.
• Completing journeys through roads is dangerous because of poor road conditions and the security environment. Hence, it is best to seek professional advice before traveling by road in South Sudan.
• You need to undergo ten days of quarantine on arrival. However, if you undergo a Covid-19 test after seven days and it is negative, you are free to leave the quarantine area.
• Ensure you keep up with new laws because they can change and be implemented at any time, including the imposition of curfews, border closure, etc.
• It is vital to get vaccinated against diseases such as yellow fever, cholera, and other health conditions. Also, travel with proof of vaccination.
• Take preventive measures against malaria by covering your body and using insecticide to spray your room. You can take an antimalarial medication with you.
• It is best to avoid undercooked or raw meals and drink only boiled or bottled water.
• Always remember to lock your doors and windows when you are not home.
• Remember that all local laws in South Sudan apply to you irrespective of your Nationality.

Choosing The Right Insurance For Your Trip To South Sudan

With the rising violence and political instability in South Sudan since its independence from the Northern part of Sudan, you need to have travel insurance for safety. Also, the health care facilities in the country are rudimentary at best. Therefore, you need emergency evacuation insurance to get out of the country if you sustain an injury. It would be best to ask your travel insurance provider if it covers South Sudan since many companies don't extend coverage to the country.