South Sudanese Passport booklets| File photo

The Director General of the Directorate of Civil Registry, Immigration, Nationality and Passports announces the arrival of 20,000 passport booklets and 50,000 nationality cards.

Speaking to Eye Radio, General Elia Costa said the issuance of the documents will begin on Monday, a move expected to reduce the backlog in processing essential identification documents across the country.

He said previous delays in delivery were caused by international flight disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East.

“The delay was not from us or the company. Many flights were cancelled because of the war between Iran and the United States. That affected the shipment of the booklets,” Costa said.

The Director General said priority will be given to students traveling abroad and patients seeking medical treatment outside the country.

“We are going to give priority first to students who are going and then also to sick people,” he added.

Costa also asked members of the public who are not in urgent need to allow those with pressing travel requirements to be served first. “If you are not in a hurry, please give chance to those who need to travel abroad for their situation,” he said.

He further revealed that additional batches of passport booklets and nationality cards are expected later this month, and that monthly deliveries will be maintained to prevent future shortages.

Costa said services will eventually extend to South Sudanese living abroad, especially in countries such as Egypt, Uganda, Kenya, and Ethiopia.

“The booklet will continue to arrive from time to time. This ensures there won’t be gaps like before,” he said.