UN calls for reversal of new South Sudan taxes that jeopardize food drops

The U.N. has called for South Sudan to remove new taxes and charges that have led to its suspension of crucial food airdrops for thousands.

The U.N said the new charges would have increased operational costs to $339,000 monthly, which it says is enough to feed over 16,300 people. The new charges introduced in February are related to electronic cargo tracking, security escort fees and new taxes on fuel.

"Our limited funds are spent on saving lives and not bureaucratic impediments," Anita Kiki Gbeho, the U.N. humanitarian coordinator for South Sudan, said.