Chuol Jany |CRN| The Government of the Republic of Korea has committed US$5 million to UNICEF to strengthen lifesaving and resilience-building programmes for children and families in South Sudan, as the country grapples with one of the world’s most complex humanitarian crises.
In a statement, UNIECF said the one-year contribution will support critical interventions in education, child protection, nutrition, and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), helping communities withstand the compounded impacts of conflict, climate shocks and economic instability.
The funding comes at a pivotal moment. An estimated 10 million people, including 5.3 million children, require humanitarian assistance across South Sudan.
More than 2.8 million school-age children are out of school, while a deepening food and nutrition crisis is expected to leave over 7 million people facing acute food insecurity by mid-2026. More than 2 million children under five are already affected by malnutrition.
UNICEF will use the funding to strengthen systems and services that can endure ongoing volatility, including extreme weather events.
School-based resilience and holistic education programmes will support both in-school and out-of-school learners, including over-age children, by expanding access to safe, inclusive education and early childhood development services to improve well-being and school retention.
Life-saving nutrition interventions will provide treatment for children under five suffering from severe acute malnutrition, while pregnant and breastfeeding women will receive essential nutrition counselling.
In crisis-affected areas, resilient WASH programmes will improve access to safe drinking water and support the construction and rehabilitation of emergency sanitation facilities.
The funding will also expand comprehensive protection services for women, girls and young people, including gender-based violence prevention and response, mental health and psychosocial support, reintegration services and livelihood opportunities.
“This significant contribution from the Republic of Korea is vital to addressing the immense humanitarian needs of women and children while strengthening resilience in South Sudan,” said Noala Skinner, UNICEF Representative in South Sudan.
“It allows UNICEF not only to deliver immediate life-saving assistance, but also to invest in sustainable programmes for health, protection and education. Investing in children is an investment in South Sudan’s future peace and stability. We call on all stakeholders to ensure unhindered access to every child.”
Mr. Kyoo-ho Lee, Director-General of the Development Cooperation Bureau at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, said the partnership reflects Korea’s long-standing commitment to the people of South Sudan.
“We are proud to partner with UNICEF to deliver life-saving services to the most vulnerable children,” he said.
“This contribution underscores the Republic of Korea’s solidarity with South Sudan and our commitment to children’s survival, safety, and access to education, protection, nutrition and clean water in times of crisis.”