UN: More than half of South Sudan's population faces crisis-level hunger

In South Sudan, the food crisis has reached a critical level, with more than half of the population facing crisis-level hunger, Azernews reports.

The humanitarian situation in the world's youngest country is deteriorating rapidly, with hunger and cholera epidemics spreading to more areas, and the need for aid increasing swiftly.

UN agencies, including the World Food Programme (WFP), the World Health Organization (WHO), and UNICEF, are calling on the international community for more support to alleviate the widespread suffering. WFP's acting director for South Sudan, Sean Heuse, has stated that there are currently no food reserves available to respond to next year's humanitarian challenges.

The situation is further exacerbated by high food prices, economic instability, and ongoing conflicts, as well as an influx of refugees from neighboring Sudan. Additionally, South Sudan serves as a major entry point for both refugees fleeing conflicts in Sudan and returnees. Those most affected by hunger are particularly vulnerable children under five years old, who face high levels of food insecurity and limited access to essential services.