South Sudan Crisis

Pushed to the brink

South Sudan, the world's newest nation, has been engulfed in deadly war for the past four years. At least 4 million people have been driven from their homes, half of whom have sought refuge in neighboring countries as Uganda, Ethiopia, and Sudan. South Sudan is now the largest refugee crisis in Africa and the third largest in the world.

In the country, over 7 million people or 63% of the total population are still struggling to find food leading to high acute malnutrition rates, particularly among children and women.

South Sudan also has the highest rate of out of school children with 2.2 million of them unable to go to school.

Women and girls are differentially impacted by the conflict. Some studies suggest that the conflict is fueling early and forced marriage and domestic violence, and rape and sexual violence in the country is endemic. According to an Oxfam survey, 72% of respondents in the Juba Protection of Civilian (PoC) site have been raped or sexually assaulted since the start of the conflict.

Inflation is at a record high in the country whilst people's incomes have been on a steady decline. Basic items as clean water and food have become too expensive for families to afford, forcing them to resort to negative coping mechanisms such as drinking dirty unsafe water, skipping meals or selling their possessions to survive.

This humanitarian crisis can only end with an inclusive and sustainable peace. With the signing of the revitalized peace agreement, parties must show by their actions that they are committed to stop fighting, to allow humanitarian access, and to provide space and freedom for civilians to effectively shape the implementation and speak out when there are concerns. South Sudanese need international solidarity now more than ever; the international community should redouble diplomatic action to incentivize lasting peace and hold parties accountable if they fail to meet their commitments.

Oxfam is there

Oxfam has a strong and established team in South Sudan that has been working tirelessly from 11 bases across the country to hold back the worst effects of the conflict.

As well as meeting the most urgent needs – including lifesaving WASH and food aid – we’re trying to help people put themselves in a stronger position to survive the shocks of war and to prepare for peace. Oxfam is providing training on more productive farming techniques, developing business skills, and access to education. For more information on our response, visit our South Sudan country page.

Get Involved

Play a role in helping the people of South Sudan in their greatest moments of need. Please donate to our South Sudan Crisis Appeal and help save a life.

You can also follow Oxfam in South Sudan's Facebook page for all the latest stories and updates.