South Sudan

South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, continues to struggle to overcome a multitude of challenges. Conflict, climate shocks, economic instability and the ongoing war in neighbouring Sudan have created a perfect storm of suffering, leaving families unable to access enough food.

Since April 2023, over 1.1 million people fleeing the conflict in Sudan have crossed into South Sudan, placing additional pressure on overstretched communities and humanitarian systems. The World Food Programme (WFP) has supported more than 620,000 of them with fortified biscuits, food or cash assistance, and nutrition support for mothers and young children.

A total of 7.56 million people – over half the population – face crisis or worse 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 State means many of the 2 million 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 2.1 million aged over 5 acutely malnourished.

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.