The UN World Food Programme (WFP) warns that millions in South Sudan could miss out on crucial food aid due to a global humanitarian funding crisis. Over 7.7 million people—half the country's population—are food insecure, with over 83,000 facing catastrophic levels of hunger. The situation is particularly dire in Upper Nile state, where conflict has displaced thousands and restricted aid access, pushing Nasir and Ulang counties toward famine. The crisis is exacerbated by the war in neighboring Sudan, with nearly 1.2 million refugees entering South Sudan since April 2023. Despite delivering aid to over two million people this year, including airdrops and river convoys, WFP can currently only support 2.5 million people, often with half-rations. A cholera outbreak further strains resources.

WFP requires an additional $274 million to avoid deeper aid cuts starting in September. WFP Deputy Executive Director Carl Skau stated, “The scale of suffering here does not make headlines, but millions of mothers, fathers and children are spending each day fighting hunger to survive.” He also noted, “WFP has the tools and capacity to deliver…But, without funding and without peace, our hands are tied.”

Impact Statement: Without urgent funding, the humanitarian crisis in South Sudan will dramatically worsen, potentially leading to widespread famine and increased suffering.