UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher raised concerns about the escalating risk of famine in South Sudan. He highlighted the country’s critical situation, with rising conflict, displacement, hunger, and disease, along with increased attacks on aid workers. Despite two-thirds of the population requiring humanitarian assistance, the funding for the $1.46 billion humanitarian plan is only at 22%.
More than 7.5 million people in South Sudan are expected to need food aid this year. The country is facing severe food insecurity, especially during the lean season up to July, with emergency levels anticipated across all 10 states. Ongoing conflicts have led to significant population displacement, with over 250,000 individuals fleeing Jonglei state and another 110,000 seeking refuge in Ethiopia.
The deteriorating situation in South Sudan is exacerbated by the destruction of 26 health facilities in Jonglei state, leaving 1.35 million people without access to healthcare. Neighboring Upper Nile state is also grappling with alarming conditions due to fighting and restrictions hindering humanitarian efforts. The influx of refugees from Sudan is adding to the strain, with hundreds of thousands seeking shelter in South Sudan.
To avert a full-scale famine and potential collapse in South Sudan, Fletcher urged the Security Council to take immediate action. He called for improved humanitarian access, increased flexible funding, and the enforcement of international humanitarian law to protect civilians and infrastructure. Additionally, Fletcher emphasized the importance of supporting political initiatives to reinforce ceasefire agreements and advance peace efforts in the region.
