By Bosco Bush
Norwegian Embassy announced contribution of at least U.S. Dollars 12.6 million to address urgent food security and protection needs in South Sudan.
This funding will be channeled through humanitarian and development partners to support vulnerable communities, including refugees and returnees affected by Sudan’s civil war and widespread flooding that has devastated livelihoods and undermined resilience across the country.
The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), is allocated USD 7.6 million to bolster food security initiatives.
UN Children’s Fund, UNICEF is allocated USD 3.6 million to deliver protection services for South Sudanese children and youth, with a focus on girls and those in conflict-affected areas.
Other partners, including the Strømme Foundation and Mercy Corps, will receive the remaining funds dedicated to food security efforts.
The initiative seeks to alleviate acute food shortages worsened by conflict, climate change, and economic instability.
“Food insecurity remains one of the most pressing challenges in South Sudan, with millions facing hunger daily,” said Norwegian Ambassador to South Sudan, Roar Haugsdal.
“It is vital that the people, government, and international donors work together to create long-term solutions to reduce hunger and food insecurity,” he added.
Ambassador Haugsdal also called on South Sudanese leaders to demonstrate political will by implementing the extended Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), and make meaningful compromises during the Tumaini peace talks.
The United Nations estimates that approximately 9 million people in South Sudan required urgent humanitarian assistance in 2024, with food insecurity reaching critical levels in many areas.
By addressing the root causes of hunger and promoting local agricultural production, South Sudan can pave the way for a self-reliant country.