Floods displace hundreds in war-torn in South Sudan

[Elisabeth Janaina]

Floods displace hundreds in war-torn in South Sudan

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September 12, 2017 (JUBA) – Floods caused by rain have displaced more
than 100,000 people in South Sudan, an official said, raising fears
about the devastating impact this could have on food security in the
war-torn nation.

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Sections of shops closed in Bor on 20 November 2013 due to floods. (ST)

"We are talking of over 70,000 individuals and 1,590 households
affected in Awiel and 40,000 others in Maban county. Other regions
like Jonglei and Lol have also reported high figures," Gatwech Peter
Kulang, the undersecretary for the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs
and Disaster Risk Management told Xinhua Tuesday.

"The situation is alarming which demands urgent intervention,” he added.

The official expressed concerns that the floods could worsen the
already dire humanitarian situation across the country, including the
spread of cholera, which has killed over 300 people and infected
nearly 20,000 others last year.

"We call upon the humanitarian community to join hands with the
government to rescue this alarming situation," stressed Kulang.

Much of South Sudan receives little rainfall and only 5% of the arable
land is currently cultivated. Nonetheless, the country has significant
potential for increased cereal production, especially in the southern
regions with the highest annual rainfall.

Accurate data on crop area and production for South Sudan are scarce,
and there is considerable uncertainty in estimates, particularly since
the renewal of armed conflict that has disrupted food production as
millions starve.

(ST)