Over 65,000 hectares of land damaged by floods in South Sudan

JUBA – At least 65,107 hectares of land has been damaged due to floods that has hit South Sudan since May, according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization report.

Heavy floods have destroyed an estimated 37 624 tons of cereals in the country, according to the latest Preliminary report of the FAO.

“Preliminary FAO analysis indicates that about 65 107 Ha of cultivated land has been damaged due to floods, with an estimated loss of 37 624 tonnes of cereals, which is expected to have negative consequences on food security of the affected populations,” a report extended to Sudans Post on Tuesday said.

More than 835,000 people have been affected by floods since May in eight of the country’s 10 states – with Jonglei, Unity, and Upper Nile being worst affected.

“Most people affected by the floods find it difficult to survive, as flooding from previous years has not yet receded and the new influx of water exacerbates the situation, making the prospect of recovery difficult if not impossible,” it said.

The report claimed that 795 558 livestock has perished due to flooding this year in eight states of South Sudan.

“An estimated 795 558 livestock have perished due to flooding this year in eight states. This includes cattle, goats and sheep, and an unknown number of poultry, dogs, and donkeys,” it said.