The international charity organization, Oxfam UK, is urging the parties negotiating in Addis Ababa to urgently reach a permanent ceasefire agreement.

Sultana Begum Policy Advisor for Oxfam UK, said if there is such an agreement, aid workers can move freely and access areas affected by the conflict without hindrances.

There have been attacks on aid workers. Earlier this month, at least six workers were killed in Maban County, Upper Nile.

“What we need to see agreed in Addis is a permanent ceasefire; both parties agreeing to humanitarian access so that people can move around freely, aid workers can access communities without fear for their lives,” she told Eye Radio in Addis Ababa.

“There is really no time to waste. People in South Sudan urgently need help. We really need to start seeing progress on the ground.”

Madam Begum also called on the warring parties to respect and protect civilians and aid workers.