In response to devastating floods sweeping across South Sudan, the United Nations has allocated a combined total of $15 million to provide critical humanitarian aid to over 700,000 vulnerable people. The Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) contributed $10 million, while the South Sudan Humanitarian Fund (SSHF) added an additional $5 million to bolster frontline efforts.
This emergency funding will support life-saving services, including health care, shelter, essential non-food items, and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) assistance. The funding will specifically target the hardest-hit counties: Aweil East in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, Fangak in Jonglei State, Nasir in Upper Nile State, and Mayendit and Rubkona in Unity State.
With record-breaking floods forecasted due to above-average rainfall and rising river levels, the situation in South Sudan has reached a critical point. The floods have already displaced tens of thousands, destroyed homes, and wiped-out crucial infrastructure, leaving communities cut off from essential services. Humanitarian Coordinator Ms. Anita Kiki Gbeho emphasized the urgency of the response, thanking international donors for their quick action in releasing funds to support flood-ravaged communities.
The joint flood preparedness and response plan, led by the Government of South Sudan, the UN, and other partners, aims to reach 2.4 million peopleacross 20 high-risk counties. As of mid-September, more than 735,000 people across 38 counties have already been affected by the floods. The 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan for South Sudan is calling for $1.8 billion to assist 6 million people, yet only 43.3% of the appeal has been funded so far.
“Floodwaters are already devastating lives and livelihoods across South Sudan,” said Ms. Gbeho. “This swift release of funds is crucial to prevent further loss and to replenish vital supplies.”
