More than one million people in South Sudan could lose vital food assistance by October unless new funding is secured, the World Food Programme (WFP) has warned.
The UN agency says South Sudan is facing growing hunger as conflict, displacement and climate shocks affect communities.
The war in neighbouring Sudan has also increased pressure on the country. Meanwhile, cuts to international aid are making the situation more difficult.
Millions struggle to find food
Around 7.8 million people, more than half of South Sudan’s population, struggle to find enough food each day, according to WFP.
The agency also says 2.2 million children need urgent nutrition support.
In addition, about 1.2 million pregnant and breastfeeding women require nutrition assistance.
Matthew Hollingworth, WFP Assistant Executive Director for Operations, presented the figures during a press conference in Geneva.
South Sudan food aid faces funding gap
The South Sudan food aid programme is facing a serious shortage of funding.
WFP says it currently needs another $86 million.
Moreover, the agency faces a funding gap of more than $400 million over the next six months.
Without additional money, more than one million vulnerable people could lose access to food and nutrition assistance by October.
The timing is also creating further challenges.
South Sudan is currently in its rainy season. During this period, food can become harder to find and prices often rise.
Flooded roads can also make it more difficult for humanitarian organisations to reach communities.
Families face difficult choices
The food crisis is already affecting how families live.
According to WFP, some families are eating less and selling their belongings.
Others are reducing spending on healthcare, education and shelter to meet their basic needs.
WFP says food assistance remains important for people facing severe hunger.
However, the agency also says humanitarian assistance should support longer-term recovery.
It has therefore called on South Sudan’s government to mobilise more of its own resources to help people affected by the crisis.