The impact of COVID-19 undermines the fragile health system of South Sudan, causing death of many people.
In a briefing to United Nations Security Council, David Shearer mentioned the twin threat posed by COVID-19 and escalating conflict in the regions which could unravel the ceasefire.
A statement by UNMISS says there is deep concern that the additional pressure of responding to COVID-19 will disrupt vaccinations, maternal health services and treatment for curable diseases like malaria, diarrhoea and pneumonia, resulting into a devastating increase in preventable deaths.
David Shearer adds the real threat to people of South Sudan lies in the collapse of the already fragile health system. This could result in many more lives being lost.
He adds governors should now be appointed to fill a power vacuum and help resolve escalating conflict in places like Jonglei where hundreds of civilians have been killed and 60,000 displaced.
He calls on citizens to work together to overcome COVID-19 and push the peace process forward so that the country can achieve lasting peace.