South Sudan is grappling with its longest and most severe cholera outbreak since independence, as over 80,000 cases and 1,400 deaths have been reported since the disease was confirmed in October 2024. The outbreak, which began in September, comes amid worsening humanitarian conditions driven by climate shocks, conflict, and widespread hunger.
According to Anita Kiki Gbeho, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in South Sudan, immediate collective action is vital to mitigate the crisis. “Now, more than ever, collective action is needed to reduce tensions, resolve political differences and make tangible progress in implementing peace,” she said.
A high-level inter-ministerial meeting held this week termed the outbreak an “alarming escalation,” emphasizing that it is not just a public health emergency but a multi-sectoral crisis. Flooding, mass displacement, and limited access to clean water and healthcare are all compounding the spread of cholera.
With the rainy season peaking soon, officials warn that the next eight weeks are crucial. Floods are known to more than double cholera outbreaks by contaminating water sources and blocking humanitarian access to vulnerable communities.
In response, the South Sudanese government and its humanitarian partners have committed to facilitating unimpeded access for aid agencies, ramping up vaccination efforts, and reinforcing water and sanitation infrastructure. Emergency supplies are being prepositioned in high-risk areas, but efforts are hampered by a severe funding shortfall.
Out of the $1.69 billion needed to address South Sudan’s intersecting crises, only $368 million has been received. Health experts stress that cholera is preventable through access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, as well as oral vaccines and timely treatment using oral rehydration salts.
Despite the overwhelming challenges, officials insist that cholera response and flood preparedness must remain top national priorities. If urgent measures are not implemented, millions of South Sudanese many of whom previously lived in areas not prone to cholera could now face significant risk due to intensified flooding and deteriorating infrastructure.
