WFP, the United Nations World Food Programme, has scaled up food assistance to reach 80,000 people affected by the recent escalation of inter-communal violence in Jonglei State.
WFP Deputy Executive Director, Ramiro Lopes da Silva, said in a statement the violence in Jonglei is only one of the many challenges that South Sudan is currently facing.He added the international community must ensure that the people of South Sudan have the support they need to build a peaceful and prosperous country.
Mr Lopes explained that WFP is providing a 15-day emergency ration to every person verified as displaced and affected by the recent attacks between Murle and Lou Nuer communities.
He added that the agency is conducting a thorough assessment to determine the food security situation and it is asking partners to supply tools and seeds to the affected communities in order to be ready to farm when the rains come.
WFP has deployed three helicopters, an aeroplane and 28 trucks to deliver food, shelter items, medical supplies and other assistance to the remotest corners of Jonglei before rains come in March.