Refugees in South Sudan Face Food Crisis as UN Runs Out of Money

Hundreds of thousands of refugees in South Sudan could soon lose access to essential food and nutrition assistance as humanitarian agencies face severe funding shortages. 

The World Food Programme (WFP) and the UN refugee agency UNHCR warn that more than 650,000 refugees and asylum seekers are affected. 

The crisis comes as South Sudan is already experiencing extreme levels of hunger. More than 7.8 million people - over half the population - face acute food insecurity, while around 2.2 million children are acutely malnourished. 

The continuing war in neighbouring Sudan is adding further pressure. Up to 3,000 refugees and returnees are arriving in South Sudan every week, and more than 1.4 million people have crossed the border since the Sudanese conflict began in 2023. 

The World Food Program USA (WFP) says it urgently needs $37 million to maintain assistance to refugees. UNHCR, meanwhile, has received only 28 percent of the $286 million it requires for its South Sudan operations this year. The agencies warn that cutting assistance could increase malnutrition, exploitation and dangerous onward migration, and are appealing for immediate international funding. 

Refugees receiving WFP assistance are already limited to half rations. Families are responding by eating fewer meals, borrowing money, selling possessions and reducing spending on healthcare, education and shelter.

WFP/UNHCR: Refugees in South Sudan Face Extreme Hunger as Funds Run Out

WPF: Recent Conflict & Growing Hunger

Illustration by UNHCR