Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
UNICEF and partners have delivered life-saving assistance to families in conflict-affected communities of South Sudan's Jonglei state, where many had been without humanitarian support for months due to escalating conflict between government and opposition forces. Fighting and displacement since January have disrupted access to healthcare, water, protection, and nutrition services for many residents.
Through its Rapid Response Mechanism, UNICEF delivered more than eight tonnes of essential supplies to isolated communities in Wiechjol, Akobo County, and Waat, Nyirol County. These included therapeutic food for children suffering from acute malnutrition, water treatment and hygiene kits, and critical medical supplies. Teams screened 1,666 children under five for acute malnutrition, admitting 146 for treatment and referring 602 for follow-up care. Additionally, 331 caregivers received counseling on nutrition for infants and young children. A survey found that global acute malnutrition rates in Akobo West exceeded 40 percent, among the highest in the country.
Health services were restored to reach 1,241 patients, including 250 children under five, providing treatment for common illnesses such as malaria, respiratory infections, diarrhea, and skin diseases. Water, sanitation, and hygiene teams distributed water filters and purification supplies to 1,200 families and dignity kits to 200 women and girls, while reaching over 2,000 people with messages on hygiene and disease prevention.
Despite these efforts, damaged water infrastructure, poor sanitation, and limited health service access continue to contribute to preventable childhood illnesses. Ongoing conflict and displacement raise heightened risks of family separation, gender-based violence, and child recruitment by armed groups, underscoring the need for sustained humanitarian support.