South Sudan

South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, continues to struggle to overcome a multitude of challenges. Conflict, mass displacement, economic instability, climate shocks and the ongoing war in neighbouring Sudan have created a perfect storm of suffering and hunger.

Since April 2023, millions of people fleeing the conflict in Sudan have crossed into South Sudan, placing additional pressure on overstretched communities and humanitarian systems. Nearly 300,000 people have been displaced across Jonglei alone, with many communities isolated and unable to access humanitarian assistance. 

A total of 7.8 million people – over half the population – face high levels of food insecurity or worse, with hunger reaching near-record levels. People in Nasir and Ulang counties in South Sudan are at risk of famine in the coming months, as conflict in Upper Nile State escalates – destroying homes, disrupting livelihoods and impeding the delivery of humanitarian aid.

The risk of escalating conflict in Jonglei means many of the people living there will be forced to flee in search of safety and food. WFP needs safe humanitarian access to deliver life-saving food assistance to hundreds of thousands of people in Jonglei.

The situation in South Sudan is particularly dire for children, with over 2.2 million aged over 5 acutely malnourished.

The World Food Programme (WFP) has supported people with fortified biscuits, food or cash assistance, and nutrition support for mothers and young children. Food assistance remains essential to averting a humanitarian catastrophe. But it must also serve as a bridge to long-term recovery. WFP is working with local civil society and empowering communities – especially women and girls – to build resilience, support peacebuilding and foster self-reliance in the face of relentless adversity.