The United Nations has issued a stark warning about the escalating food crisis in South Sudan, where violence, floods, and economic turmoil have converged to create a humanitarian emergency. According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), 79,000 people in Jonglei State are facing catastrophic levels of food insecurity.
“Overall, more than 7 million people in the country face food insecurity—an increase of more than 20 percent compared to mid-year 2023,” OCHA reported. The crisis has been exacerbated by underfunding of humanitarian efforts and an influx of people fleeing conflict in neighboring Sudan.
The number of individuals experiencing the highest level of food insecurity, classified as IPC Phase 5, is projected to nearly double by July. This increase would bring the number to 79,000 people in parts of Jonglei State, up from 35,000 during the same period last year.
Compounding the crisis, South Sudan is bracing for its worst floods in 60 years. Beginning in September, humanitarian organizations aim to deliver life-saving assistance to 2.4 million of the 3.3 million people expected to be affected by flooding in northern, northeastern, and central regions of the country.
Despite the urgent need, OCHA highlighted a significant funding shortfall. An estimated $264 million is required to address immediate needs, but this year’s broader appeal for $1.8 billion is less than 20 percent funded, with just over $353 million received six months into 2024.
The situation underscores the critical necessity for international support to prevent a worsening humanitarian disaster in South Sudan.
Reference(s):
UN: Thousands in South Sudan facing high level of food insecurity
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