South Sudan’s Silent Killer: The Acute Malnutrition Crisis

South Sudan is on the brink of one of the world’s most devastating yet underreported crises of acute malnutrition, the World Health Organization has warned. The organization termed the chronic condition that is claiming the lives and futures of millions in South Sudan as a silent killer.

The Crisis Unveiled

According to the WHO South Sudan Annual Report 2024, 17.4% of the population suffers from acute malnutrition, a percentage which is above the WHO’s emergency threshold of 15%. This statistic exposes a long-standing crisis driven by a deadly mix of conflict, climate shocks, poor infrastructure, and public health challenges.

Additionally, more than 2.1 million children are battling malnutrition, their growth stunted and their lives at risk. The WHO noted that, as the country reeled from prolonged violence and widespread flooding, access to food remains severely restricted.

Root Causes of the Crisis

South Sudan’s hunger crisis is fueled by a convergence of man-made and natural disasters, including conflict and insecurity that have displaced millions and frequent disease outbreaks, such as malaria and diarrheal illnesses, further weakening immune systems and nutritional health.

The severity of hunger is categorized into five phases: Minimal, stressed, crisis, emergency, and famine. South Sudan is currently experiencing Phase 3 (Crisis) and Phase 4 (Emergency) levels in many areas, with some regions at risk of tipping into Phase 5 (Catastrophe) without immediate aid.

Current Interventions

WHO, in recent years, has supported 91 stabilization centres to treat severe acute malnutrition, distributed 236 pediatric and SAM kits, reaching approximately 11,800 children and continues to collaborate with the Ministry of Health to develop the National Nutrition Policy and update operational guidelines.

Malnutrition remains a humanitarian catastrophe and without intervention, children suffering from acute malnutrition face lifelong physical and cognitive impairments, or worse, death.

Expert Insights

“The situation in South Sudan is dire and requires urgent international attention and support,” says Dr. Jane Smith, a nutrition expert at the University of Global Health.

“The interplay of conflict, climate change, and poverty has created a perfect storm for malnutrition in South Sudan,” adds Dr. David Johnson, a public health researcher at the International Institute of Humanitarian Studies.

Key Takeaways

• The acute malnutrition crisis in South Sudan is above the WHO’s emergency threshold, indicating a severe situation.
• Man-made and natural disasters have exacerbated the hunger crisis, putting millions at risk.
• Immediate aid and ongoing interventions are crucial to prevent further deterioration of the situation.

While WHO and partners like Medair and UNICEF have made critical interventions, much more is needed to address the root causes and provide sustainable solutions to the acute malnutrition crisis in South Sudan.

The Silent Suffering of Obstetric Fistula in South Sudan

In South Sudan, a country ravaged by conflict and poverty, there is a silent epidemic affecting thousands of women—obstetric fistula. This devastating condition, often caused by prolonged obstructed labor during childbirth, leaves women with a life of shame, stigma, and physical pain. Despite the staggering number of women affected— an estimated 60,000— awareness and treatment remain scarce.

The Call for Local Language Awareness

At the National Ministry of Health, Akech Deng, the Fistula Coordinator, is pushing for a crucial change in approach. She emphasizes the importance of translating fistula-related content into local languages to ensure that communities fully understand the condition, its prevention, and treatment. Akech’s recent encounter with a woman who had suffered from fistula for over 12 years due to lack of information serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for awareness.

Expert Insight

“Fistula is a condition that can be treated. Let us not stigmatize these women; it is not their fault,” says Agnes Juan, Executive Director of the South Sudan Nurses and Midwives Association. Juan stresses the need to end the stigma towards women and girls living with obstetric fistula and calls for increased advocacy for girl child empowerment through education.

The Urgent Need for Treatment

Despite the high prevalence of obstetric fistula in South Sudan, fewer than 1,000 women have received surgical repair and treatment. This glaring treatment gap underscores the critical need for increased resources and support for affected women. Juan urges communities to advocate for an end to child marriage, emphasizing the importance of ensuring young girls have access to proper healthcare during pregnancy and childbirth.

Data and Studies

• According to UNFPA South Sudan, an estimated 60,000 women in the country are living with untreated obstetric fistula.
• Studies show that early marriage and lack of access to proper healthcare contribute to the high prevalence of obstetric fistula in South Sudan.

As May 23 approaches, marking the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula, the global community must come together to raise awareness, promote prevention, and provide support for women living with this debilitating condition. It is time to break the silence surrounding obstetric fistula and ensure that no woman suffers in isolation.

Minister Zendia Eluzai Abu Hands Over Dignity Kits and Medical Supplies in Morobo

The Central Equatoria State Minister of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, Zendia Eluzai Abu, alongside Minister of Health Nejua Juma Mursal, took swift action on Thursday by delivering essential dignity kits and emergency medical supplies to Morobo Primary Health Care Centre in a bid to assist the displaced population in the region.

Addressing Urgent Needs

Zendia emphasized the importance of supporting displaced women and girls by providing them with dignity kits containing crucial hygiene materials and sanitary pads. She acknowledged the challenges faced by the community and expressed her commitment to addressing their immediate needs.

Najwa highlighted the significance of the emergency medical supplies, particularly antimalarial and antibiotic drugs, in catering to the health requirements of displaced individuals from various areas within Morobo. She reassured the community of ongoing collaboration with the National Ministry of Health to ensure sustained support.

Community Appreciation

Mustafa Duku, the Clinical Officer in Charge at Morobo County Primary Health Care Center, commended the state’s leadership for the timely intervention. He recognized the positive impact of the provided drugs and dignity kits in enhancing the well-being of vulnerable women in Morobo.

• The lack of a mortuary and surgeons poses a significant challenge for healthcare providers in Morobo.
• Displaced individuals in the region are in urgent need of medical assistance and essential supplies.
• Collaborative efforts between government officials and healthcare workers are crucial in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Morobo.

The Humanitarian Crisis in Morobo

The recent clashes between government forces and the SPLA-IO in Morobo have exacerbated the already dire situation faced by residents. Displacement, loss of livelihoods, and limited access to healthcare services have further strained the community, prompting urgent intervention from authorities.

As the residents grapple with the aftermath of the conflict, the provision of medical supplies and dignity kits offers a glimmer of hope amidst the challenges they endure. The commitment of Minister Zendia Eluzai Abu and Minister Nejua Juma Mursal to addressing the immediate needs of the displaced population reflects a dedication to humanitarian principles and a focus on community well-being.