Over six million people in South Sudan or nearly 60 percent of the population face desperate food shortages, with many on the brink of famine, warns a United Nations agencies report.
WFP, UNICEF and FAO’s report blames the hardship on widespread conflict and lack of humanitarian access in Unity, Lakes, Jonglei, Upper Nile, Western Bahr el Ghazal, Leer and Mayendit.
Lack of access prevents humanitarian organizations from having a clear understanding of needs today, says Herve Verhoosel, WFP spokesman.
“Action and political leadership are needed”, he adds.
WFP says it has reached more than 3 million people with 30,000 tons of food this year and is preparing to respond to growing needs in 2019, Verhoosel says.
FAO reports that it provided 1.4 million farmers with agricultural seeds and tools during the main planting season to increase cereal production.
UNICEF and partners reportedly have provided treatment to 147,000 children suffering from severe acute malnutrition since January this year.
Ultimately, the three agencies agree that only a sustainable peace across South Sudan will allow people in the country to live safe and fulfilling lives.