The spokesperson for UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Thursday revealed that escalating conflict in South Sudan’s Jonglei State has prompted UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher to allocate $10 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund to deliver urgent assistance to nearly 180,000 displaced people.
Stéphane Dujarric, who was briefing the press in New York, said the funds will support food assistance, healthcare, shelter, water, sanitation, and hygiene services, as well as the prevention of gender-based violence and violence against children.
“Since the end of December, conflict has forced more than 200,000 people from their homes,” he stated. “Women and girls, children, people with disabilities, and older persons face heightened risks of violence and exploitation.”
Dujarric said a government-declared no-fly zone in Jonglei State, alongside insecurity and bureaucratic constraints, continues to limit humanitarian access. He added that around 15 non-governmental organizations are providing essential aid with the limited resources available.
“This year, we and our partners are appealing for nearly $1.5 billion to support more than 4 million people in need,” he said.