South Sudan: Urgent call for $1.8 billion to aid 6 million in need

JUBA – Amidst a dire humanitarian crisis, the United Nations and its humanitarian partners in South Sudan have issued an urgent appeal for $1.8 billion to assist 6 million people in desperate need of aid.

This staggering figure represents the stark reality of the country’s ongoing struggles with conflict, climate change, and food insecurity.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Acting Humanitarian Coordinator Marie-Helene Verney emphasized the unwavering commitment of humanitarian organizations to addressing the immediate needs of South Sudan’s most vulnerable populations while simultaneously working towards long-term resilience and livelihoods development.

“We will work to support people’s progress to being self-reliant so that they no longer have to depend on humanitarian assistance,” Verney stated.

“Sadly, for most people, we expect multiple shocks, including the negative impact of climate change, which will continue to drive acute needs next year,” added Verney.

The humanitarian community’s projections for 2024 paint a sobering picture: 9 million people are expected to require some form of humanitarian assistance, with 6 million identified as having the most acute needs.

To address these urgent requirements, humanitarian partners are seeking $1.8 billion in funding.

Verney explained that the humanitarian response will prioritize individuals facing shock-driven needs, including those affected by adverse climate conditions, conflict, and disease outbreaks.

She acknowledged the limitations imposed by resource constraints and the difficult reality that some people’s needs will remain unmet.

“With less funding in 2024, we will prioritize assistance to support communities with the most acute needs,” Verney said.

“The reality is that some people will experience needs that humanitarians will not be able to respond to, and it is important that they have access to state-provided basic services,” she added.

The latest Integrated Phase Classification (IPC) report paints a grim picture of South Sudan’s food security situation.

An estimated 7.1 million people are projected to face food insecurity during the lean season from April to July, highlighting the prevalence of hunger and malnutrition.

Additionally, 1.6 million children remain at critical risk of malnutrition, with women and girls disproportionately impacted by gender-based violence.

These figures underscore the urgent need for sustained humanitarian assistance and long-term solutions to address the root causes of South Sudan’s humanitarian crisis.