UN Peacekeepers Rescue Three Civilians After Canoe Capsizes on Nile River in South Sudan

July 13, 2026
By Mintesinot Nigussie

Three civilians were rescued after strong winds and high waves overturned their canoe on the River Nile near Malakal in South Sudan’s Upper Nile State, in an operation carried out by United Nations peacekeepers.

The Bangladesh Force Marine Unit serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) responded after witnessing the incident and deployed two patrol boats to recover the passengers struggling in the river.

The peacekeepers rescued all three civilians and recovered their overturned canoe along with between 10 and 15 bags of charcoal they had been transporting, preserving an important source of income for families dependent on river trade.

"The rescued civilians were taken to the Bangladesh Boat Pool, where a medical team was on standby to provide emergency assistance," said Lieutenant Commander Fahim Ahmed, team leader of the rescue operation.

One survivor sustained an injury to his right toe and received treatment at the UN Peacekeeping Field Hospital before being discharged on the same day. All three civilians later returned home safely with their recovered boat and cargo.

River transport remains a critical link for communities along the Nile, allowing residents to move goods including food, firewood and charcoal between villages and markets. However, changing weather conditions and sudden storms pose risks to people relying on small boats.

"The rapid response by the Bangladesh Force Marine Unit helped prevent what could have become a tragic loss of life," Ahmed said, adding that such operations demonstrate the role peacekeepers play in supporting the safety and well-being of communities in Upper Nile State.

Residents in Malakal welcomed the rescue, saying river crossings remain essential for daily livelihoods despite the dangers posed by unpredictable weather.

Source: FSX Business News