In Numbers
4.8 million
People severely food insecure (IPC Phases 3, 4 and 5, May–July 2016)
>2.4 million
People displaced by conflict ‒ nearly 15 000 in Juba alone due to latest violence
Key Messages
Recent violence is expected to exacerbate already unprecedented levels of malnutrition and food insecurity in Juba and across South Sudan. The latest IPC projection of 4.8 million people facing severe food insecurity is anticipated to rise, with some areas facing hunger crises.
Information collection and analysis on the deteriorating food security situation is critical to inform humanitarian response to the latest crisis and ensure that hardest hit populations receive urgent support. Accurate and comprehensive data is vital to programming as the situation evolves on the ground.
Violence in Juba and other areas has disrupted the food supply to markets and led to new displacements. With harvest and preparations for second season in the ‘green belt’ due in August/September, it is critical that the situation stabilizes.
Despite the loss of critical supplies that were destined for vulnerable households, FAO has already identified some stocks to continue providing emergency livelihood kits for a rapid response campaign.
Background
Severe food insecurity is affecting some 4.8 million people – over one-third of the population – between July and August 2016, according to the results of the recently released IPC. However, the serious unrest that began in Juba on 7 July is expected to exacerbate the already extremely high levels of malnutrition and food insecurity in South Sudan. Without a return to stability that will allow agricultural production to continue, livestock to move normally and markets to re-open, the situation could rapidly become catastrophic. Under normal conditions, harvesting of the main maize and sorghum crop would begin in August and run through December; while the planting of a second season in the ‘green belt’ would take place by August. The country's food security depends on these activities taking place without impediment. A full and lasting cessation of hostilities is essential to prevent a deepening food crisis and allow the humanitarian community to resume its work to help the people of South Sudan feed themselves.