As of early September 2024, catastrophic flooding has affected over 710,000 people across 30 counties in South Sudan, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. The floods have destroyed homes, crops, and essential infrastructure, resulting in widespread displacement and increasing the risk of disease outbreaks. The states most impacted are Jonglei, Unity, and Warrap, with over 15,000 people displaced in Fangak County alone. The floods have also hindered access to education and healthcare, leaving communities vulnerable and in need of urgent medical care, shelter, and sanitation supplies.
Humanitarian efforts are in full swing distributing food, medical supplies, and shelter materials to those affected. Despite these efforts, access challenges persist due to impassable roads and flooded areas. In Northern Bahr el Ghazal, over 198,000 people have been displaced, and in Fangak County, local communities are attempting to build dykes with limited tools, highlighting the severe gaps in essential supplies. The situation continues to worsen as more rainfall is expected, increasing the urgency for coordinated action to mitigate the disaster.
Children in Conflict's Critical Role in South Sudan
In the midst of this crisis, Children in Conflict is playing a pivotal role in supporting children and families affected by conflict and natural disasters in South Sudan. Their efforts focus on providing psychosocial support, education, and child protection services, particularly for children displaced by both flooding and ongoing violence. Children in Conflict’s programs aim to rebuild a sense of normalcy for children through safe spaces, trauma recovery programs, and access to education.
Additionally, Children in Conflict is working to strengthen local communities' resilience by providing livelihood support and advocating for the protection of children’s rights in South Sudan. Through these programs, Children in Conflict not only addresses immediate humanitarian needs but also invests in long-term recovery, ensuring that the most vulnerable children have the tools they need to recover and thrive in a challenging environment.