United Nations or UN Humanitarian Coordinator in South Sudan on Saturday said over seven million South Sudanese are at risk of hunger compared to an estimated total population of 12 million people in the country.
Toby Lanzer told journalists that about four million people are at famine risk, severe condition, describing it a pressing emergency situation and staggering figure affecting more than a third of the population.
The Coordinator said the international community gears up preventive measures through humanitarian efforts and political settlement of the country’s conflict by IGAD and partners to avert increasing chances of death.
Mr Lanzer welcomed recent agreement for formation of Government of National Unity and ceasefire, saying it is the only biggest contribution to save lives.
He hopes the agreements between the government and SPLM/A in opposition would be translated into practical meaningful cessation of hostilities on the ground.
The Coordinator appealed for 1.8 billion Dollars for implementing lives’ saving plan up to the end of the year.
Mr Lanzer added that humanitarian aid would also pave way for sustainable livelihoods in the aftermath of the devastating conflict in South Sudan.
The Coordinator made the statement in a press conference in Juba where he announced South Sudan 2014 Crisis Response Plan.