Norway commits $12.6 million to address South Sudan’s food security

JUBA – The Norwegian Embassy in Juba has announced an additional contribution of NOK 140 million (approximately USD 12.6 million) to address urgent food security and protection needs in South Sudan.

A statement released by the Norwegian embassy in South Sudan said the funding will be channeled through humanitarian and development partners to support vulnerable communities.

The funds will address the needs of refugees and returnees affected by Sudan’s civil war and victims of widespread flooding that has devastated livelihoods and undermined resilience across the country.

The initiative seeks to alleviate acute food shortages exacerbated by conflict, climate change, and economic instability.

The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), a long-standing partner of Norway in food security, has been allocated NOK 85 million (approximately USD 7.6 million) to bolster food security initiatives.

Other partners, including the Strømme Foundation and Mercy Corps, will receive the remaining funds dedicated to food security efforts.

The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has been allocated NOK 40 million (approximately USD 3.6 million) to deliver protection services for South Sudanese children and youth, with a focus on girls and those in conflict-affected areas.

“Food insecurity remains one of the most pressing challenges in South Sudan, with millions facing hunger daily,” said Norwegian Ambassador to South Sudan, Roar Haugsdal. “It is vital that the people, government, and international donors work together to create long-term solutions to reduce hunger and food insecurity.”

Ambassador Haugsdal also called on South Sudanese leaders to demonstrate political will by implementing the extended Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and making meaningful compromises during the Tumaini peace talks.

The United Nations estimates that approximately 9 million people in South Sudan required urgent humanitarian assistance in 2024, with food insecurity reaching critical levels in many areas.

By addressing the root causes of hunger and promoting local agricultural production, South Sudan can pave the way for a self-reliant country.

Norway’s commitment remains steadfast, with the country contributing over USD 100 million in development and humanitarian aid to South Sudan in the past year.