AWEIL — An estimated 1.1 million people across five counties of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State have been affected by a prolonged dry spell, raising concerns over food shortages and worsening hunger in the coming months.
The figures were revealed following a meeting held in Aweil on Monday between government officials and humanitarian partners, including the World Food Programme (WFP) and World Vision.
The meeting reviewed findings from a rapid assessment conducted across five counties to assess the impact of the prolonged absence of rainfall.
Speaking to the media after the meeting on Monday in Aweil, State Minister for Agriculture and Forestry, Garang Chan Atak, said the assessment was initiated after the dry spell threatened agricultural production and raised fears of increased hunger later this year and into 2027.
“During the dry spell in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, we initiated the rapid assessment by calling the food security and livelihood partners,” Chan said.
“It was initiated by the Ministry of Agriculture, and for now we have compiled the report after it was presented to the Ministry of Agriculture, as the matter is critical.”
He described the situation facing households across the state as serious and said an estimated 1.1 million people had been affected by the prolonged dry conditions.
“The situation is extremely serious, with an estimated 1.1 million people affected across the state.”
Chan said he would share the assessment report with the national Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management and other relevant authorities to support efforts to address the growing food security concerns.
For his part, Gabriel Deng Yel, State Minister of Information, said the assessment came at a critical time as communities face difficulties preparing for the consequences of poor crop and vegetable yields.
“The government and local NGOs, including international organizations, have sent their representatives to review the findings on the long dry spell affecting our crops and vegetables. We went through that document, and the NGOs and government should join hands,” Deng said.
He said the findings would be shared with the governor and relevant national ministries to support a coordinated response to the situation.
Deng called on humanitarian and development partners to strengthen support for affected communities through agricultural assistance and humanitarian interventions.
“We urge our local partners to put much effort into this matter, as the situation is tough. 2027 will be worse, and some months of this year are not covered yet.”
The prolonged lack of rainfall has disrupted agricultural activities in several parts of Northern Bahr el Ghazal, leaving farmers concerned about crop production and household livelihoods.
