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SUMMARY OF CRISIS AND KEY FINDINGS
In their twelfth year of independence, the people of South Sudan are confronted by formidable challenges marked by conflict in 2013 and 2016, intensifying humanitarian, economic, social and political crises.1
The humanitarian situation in South Sudan remains concerning with increasing needs and a growing number of people requiring assistance. There is also a continued influx of refugees and returnees due to the Sudan crisis, with 658 021 arrivals since April 2023.2 Currently, 5.78 million people (46% of the total population) are estimated to face crisis-level food insecurity or worse, with the situation expected to worsen to affect 7.1 million people (56% of the total population) during the lean season (April to July 2024). 3 High levels of food insecurity, elevated prevalence of diseases, and poor hygiene and health, are the main drivers of acute malnutrition.4
These challenges are compounded by the 2023-24 El Niño phenomenon, one of the strongest on record. El Niño has escalated regional climate patterns, causing dry conditions and erratic rainfall, subsequently affecting crop production, and worsening disease outbreaks.5 Large areas of the country have been submerged year-round and there have been sudden floods in new areas unaccustomed to them.6
The severe floods- together with recurrent outbreaks of violence, weak governance, persistent underlying poverty and a lack of basic infrastructure and services – have created a complex humanitarian crisis and prevent the young nations progression.7 As a result of these factors, South Sudan grapples with a severe health crisis, affecting 8.9 million people primarily in flood- and conflict affected regions with population movements (displacement and returns) and disease outbreaks. The nation's health system, heavily reliant on international aid, faces staffing and resource shortages. Vulnerable groups, including women, children, the elderly and persons with disabilities, have limited access to health care and face heightened risks of illness and mortality.