Understanding the 2017 Famine in South Sudan

Name: Understanding the 2017 Famine in South Sudan
Start: 2017-02-20
Location: Unspecified

Overview of the 2017 Famine in South Sudan

The year 2017 marked a devastating chapter in the history of South Sudan as a severe famine was declared in Unity State, impacting the lives of around 4.9 million people. This humanitarian crisis arose from a combination of protracted conflict, economic instability, and climate-related disasters that disrupted agricultural activities.

The Declaration of Famine

On February 20, 2017, the United Nations announced that famine conditions existed in parts of Unity State, with families facing the threat of starvation. This was the first time since 2011 that famine was declared, highlighting the urgency of the situation. The declaration was based on the comprehensive assessment of food availability and nutritional status, revealing appalling levels of malnutrition among children.

Factors Leading to the Crisis

The famine resulted from a perfect storm of factors. Ongoing civil war had displaced millions and restricted humanitarian access. Additionally, the fallout from economic mismanagement led to hyperinflation, drastically raising food prices. To compound the situation, severe flooding in 2016 destroyed crops, leaving rural communities with limited food supplies.

The Impact of the Famine

The humanitarian impact of the famine was profound, leading to widespread starvation and increased mortality rates. Women and children bore the brunt of the crisis, facing heightened risks of violence, exploitation, and health complications.

Humanitarian Responses

In response to the famine, local and international organizations mobilized efforts to provide essential aid. The World Food Program (WFP) launched emergency operations, delivering food and nutritional assistance to the hardest-hit areas. However, access remained limited due to security concerns, making it challenging to reach many communities.

Coping Mechanisms Among Affected Communities

Amidst the dire circumstances, many affected individuals resorted to coping strategies to survive. Some communities engaged in foraging for wild foods, while others relied on remittances from family members abroad. Nonetheless, the long-term sustainability of these measures was uncertain, as the conflict and climate impacts persisted.

Fun Fact

South Sudan’s Resilience

Despite the catastrophic famine, the people of South Sudan have exhibited remarkable resilience. Communities often band together in the face of adversity, utilizing traditional practices to manage scarce resources while advocating for peace.