Humanitarian Crisis in South Sudan

The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the rapidly escalating violence in South Sudan, calling for immediate protection of the population and unimpeded access to lifesaving humanitarian aid.

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The Current Situation

During a recent visit to Malakal, the capital of Upper Nile State, the Humanitarian Coordinator for South Sudan, Ms. Anita Kiki Gbeho, witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of the violence on the people. She emphasized that all parties involved in the conflict must refrain from harming civilians, including humanitarian personnel who risk their lives to deliver aid.

Violence and Displacement

Since March 2025, armed clashes and aerial bombardments have resulted in the deaths of over 180 people, injured more than 250 others, and displaced approximately 125,000 individuals. The violence has also claimed the lives of four humanitarian workers, and six health facilities have been forced to shut down due to looting and destruction.

Humanitarian Access and Health Crisis

Humanitarian access remains restricted, and critical medical supplies are rapidly running out amid an ongoing cholera outbreak that has already claimed 919 lives and infected nearly 49,000 people in South Sudan. The suspension of services at Ulang Hospital, which serves 174,000 people, has further exacerbated the crisis.

Efforts to Address the Crisis

While in Malakal, Ms. Gbeho met with conflict-affected communities, the Governor of Upper Nile State, UN agencies, non-governmental organizations, and civil society representatives to assess the humanitarian situation and coordinate the response on the ground. She also visited a cholera treatment centre to understand the situation better.

Funding and Support

The 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan for South Sudan is currently only 12.6 percent funded, despite the urgent needs of 9.3 million people across the country. The compounding impacts of conflict, food insecurity, disease outbreaks, economic crisis, climate shocks, and instability in neighboring Sudan are fueling a severe humanitarian emergency.

Conclusion

The latest surge in violence in South Sudan must stop to prevent further loss of life and suffering. With the rainy season approaching and the cholera outbreak accelerating, rapid and unhindered access to vulnerable communities, along with the delivery of critical supplies, is urgently needed to save lives. The international community must come together to provide the necessary funding and support to address the humanitarian crisis in South Sudan and ensure the protection and well-being of its people.