 has evacuated more than 1,000 residents from Old Fangak following the collapse of a critical dyke that triggered severe flooding on the night of August 30.){kind=link}
By Otto Abut | Juba, South Sudan | Thursday-04 Sept, 2025
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has evacuated more than 1,000 residents from Old Fangak following the collapse of a critical dyke that triggered severe flooding on the night of August 30.
According to MSF, the breach occurred around 11 p.m. when a local dyke watcher reported serious leakage. Despite efforts by community members, the dyke eventually gave way, unleashing floodwaters that forced widespread displacement.
Over the following days, MSF carried out several emergency evacuations, transporting vulnerable groups — including women, children, and the elderly — to safer locations in Toch and Paguir by Monday, September 1.
“We don’t usually move by boat at night in these areas due to safety risks, but we had to prioritize saving lives that were in imminent danger,” said Atsuhiko Ochiai, MSF’s Deputy Head of Mission for South Sudan.
Local MSF staff described the situation as chaotic and life-threatening.
“Everyone left immediately, running in all directions to evacuate their families,” said Lony Diang Top Buom.
“I saw families struggling against the rising waters. Many of us left everything behind — beds, belongings, homes — just to carry our children to safety. Everything is now underwater.”
Witnesses said those left behind are stranded on rooftops, dykes, or makeshift rafts, anxiously awaiting further rescue efforts. Locals described the disaster as the worst in living memory.
“The main goal is to get people to safety first — then assess what kind of assistance they need,” Ochiai said.