German Funding Boosts WFP Lifeline
The United Nations World Food Programme confirmed a €28.5 million infusion from Germany to scale up food and nutrition assistance across South Sudan, describing the timing as critical (WFP).
“This funding will significantly enhance ongoing efforts to assist those in need at a very critical time,” noted Mary-Ellen McGroarty, WFP Country Director.
Lean Season Threatens Millions
Projections show 7.56 million South Sudanese—over half the population—could face acute food insecurity between April and July 2026 as conflict, displacement and erratic weather curb harvests.
In areas where calm has held and access improved, analysts report modest gains, underscoring the link between stability and nutrition outcomes.
Women and Children at Epicentre of Malnutrition
The latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification places 2.1 million children, plus more than one million pregnant or breastfeeding women, in urgent need of nutritional support.
WFP will channel part of the German grant into fortified blends, counselling and community screening to stem rising wasting rates.
From Relief to Resilience
Beyond immediate rations, the package funds cash start-ups, skills training and village savings groups aimed at tackling the structural roots of hunger.
“These measures empower local communities to generate income and manage shocks,” a WFP livelihoods coordinator explained.
A Strategic, Long-Term Partnership
Ambassador Gregory Bledjian stressed Berlin’s “utmost priority to support the most vulnerable populations, especially women and children,” while calling for unhindered humanitarian access.
Germany has now committed more than US$200 million to WFP’s South Sudan portfolio since 2021, aligning emergency aid with long-term development goals.