UK pledges £8m to mitigate effects of famine in S. Sudan
October 24, 2020 (Thessherald)–The United Kingdom has announced a pledge of £8 million as part of its commitment to build resilience and minimize the effects of famine in South Sudan.
This comes as the British diplomat, James Duddridge, visited South Sudan last week to see first-hand the civilian population severely affected by the reccuring floods in different parts of the country.
“Minister for Africa commits £8m to mitigate famine in South Sudan
James Duddridge’s visit to South Sudan shows how the UK is helping protect the vulnerable, prevent famine across Africa and act as a force for good in the world,” the British government announced.
Adding that, “The UK Minister for Africa, James Duddridge, travelled to South Sudan this week (20 to 22 October) where he committed £8 million to help the victims of flooding, reduce extreme hunger and help mitigate the ongoing risk of famine in the country.”
According to Duddridge, thrhumanitarian assistance will go a long way towards supporting flood-hit communities and providing them with vital food and medicine.
“This support will help the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), International Organization for Migration (IOM), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to provide food assistance, nutrition support, shelter, and water, sanitation and hygiene support.”
“This will help some of the most vulnerable in areas where nearly a million people have been affected by flooding and conflict, leaving them on the verge of humanitarian catastrophe. The announcement was made during a visit to Pibor and Bor to see first-hand how UK aid is providing vital assistance to people facing flooding, conflict and severe hunger.”
Speaking to the press after meeting the South Sudanese President, Salva Kiir Mayardit and other Vice Presidents, James Duddridge, UK Minister for Africa, Duddridge reaffirmed that, “the UK stands with the people of South Sudan and is helping save lives.”
“We will provide vital food and support to thousands of people on the brink of hunger, following devastating flooding and conflict.”
Duddridge underlined that restoring peace and stability is the only solution to addressing these challenges facing the country
“However, aid is not a long-term solution. The Government of South Sudan must commit more resources to ending conflict, bringing peace and stability and providing basic services including health and education to its people.”
For his part, WFP Country Director in South Sudan, Matthew Hollingworth, commended the funding committed by the UK.
“Conflict, extreme flooding and increases in violence mean South Sudan is facing humanitarian catastrophe. Millions of households are skipping meals. This new UK funding to tackle food insecurity will help alleviate some of this suffering. However, other donors must urgently step up efforts, while the Government of South Sudan must continue to ensure access to those in need.”