29 June 2026
Press Release
For Immediate Release
Fatal Ambush on John Dau Foundation Humanitarian Convoy in Duk County, Jonglei State
It is with profound regret that we report a deliberate and brutal ambush targeting John Dau Foundation (JDF) vehicles, clearly marked with JDF insignia, occurring earlier today on the route between Payuel Payam and Pajut of Panyang Payam in Duk County, Jonglei State. The convoy was transporting staff returning from a WFP/ACF training session when the attack transpired.
This calculated act of violence has resulted in the tragic loss of five dedicated JDF employees. Additionally, three staff members and a driver sustained serious injuries. We also mourn the loss and injury of several civilians caught in this ruthless assault.
While JDF has endured significant losses over the years, this incident represents the most grievous and somber chapter in our organization's history. We call upon all stakeholders, partners, and the wider community to offer their prayers, solidarity, and support to the bereaved families and the entire JDF family during this profoundly difficult time.
In response, both Governor of Jonglei State, Dr. Riek Gai Kok and Duk Commissioner, John Chatim have immediately deployed recovery and security teams to the scene to coordinate emergency response and ensure safety.
United, we remain steadfast in our humanitarian commitment to healing, resilience, and peace.
Dhieu Deng Leek (John Dau)
Founder and Executive Director
Providing healthcare, nutrition, employment, and hope to the people of South Sudan.
In Partnership with:
A message from John
Learn more about John’s incredible story of bravery, resilience, and growth.
Our Work in South Sudan
THE NEED
Residents of South Sudan suffer from widespread preventable disease, endemic famine, rampant malnourishment and civil war. Because of a shortage of nutrition and basic health services, 1 in 5 children die before they reach the age of five. Maternal mortality is particularly high as well.
OUR SOLUTIONS
Through initiatives like the Duk Lost Boys Clinic, we screen for malnutrition, administer nutrition programs, provide mothers with pre- and post-natal care, and deliver treatment and immunization for preventable diseases largely unknown in the West.
Our success is because of you.
1.7 Million
People suffering from malnutrition have been fed through our nutrition programs.
567,000
Patients have been cared for, provided life-saving medicines and healthcare services.
35,000
Babies have been delivered and 45,000 mothers have received pre- and post-natal Care at JDF facilities.
Help us fill our gap.
While we receive generous support from the World Food Program, UNICEF, U.S. AID and others, we still have a funding gap each month we need to fill.
We support the gap in funding with generous donations from our supporters.
Please make a donation today and you can help feed a family, provide prenatal healthcare to a young mother, or help employ a healthcare worker at one of our clinics.