More than 7.55 million people in South Sudan are projected to suffer from severe malnutrition during the April-to-July 2026 lean season, when food reserves typically run low, according to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) — a global hunger monitoring system supported by the United Nations.
The IPC’s latest report, released on Tuesday, paints a grim picture of worsening hunger driven by escalating conflict, mass displacement, and shrinking international aid.
“The high severity of acute food insecurity in South Sudan is of great concern, requiring an immediate and large-scale response to save lives,” the IPC report said.
South Sudan is once again on the brink of civil war, following President Salva Kiir’s suspension of First Vice President Riek Machar, who now faces treason charges. The move has reignited long-standing political rivalries that have previously plunged the country into brutal conflict.
Currently, about 5.97 million South Sudanese — roughly 42 percent of the population — are enduring acute food shortages, according to the report.
The IPC classifies 28,000 people in Luakpiny Nasir and Fangak counties as living in “catastrophic” conditions, the most severe level of food insecurity. These areas have been battered by persistent violence, flooding, and blocked humanitarian access.
Children and Mothers at Extreme Risk
The report warns that by June 2026, more than 2.1 million children under five and 1.15 million pregnant or breastfeeding women could face acute malnutrition.
Six counties are expected to hit the highest crisis levels, driven by conflict-related displacement, lack of healthcare, and a spreading cholera outbreak.
“This is an alarming trajectory,” said Mary-Ellen McGroarty, the World Food Programme’s (WFP) country director in South Sudan.
Humanitarian agencies face growing obstacles in delivering aid. The report highlights that insecurity, looting, and flooding have cut off entire communities for months, leaving millions unreachable.
Aid agencies warn that the funding shortfall threatens to derail critical food and health programs. International donors have reduced their commitments, citing global crises and donor fatigue.
Without urgent intervention, experts fear South Sudan could slide into one of the worst hunger crises in its history.