Gov’t denies existence of famine threat in South Sudan

JUBA – South Sudan’s ministry of agriculture and food security has denied reports by a number of humanitarian organizations of famine threats being faced by the world’s youngest country saying the world’s youngest country is witnessing food security as it struggles to implement a 2018 peace agreement.

The Undersecretary of the ministry, Dr. John Kniso, said in a statement extended to Sudans Post on Monday that the country “had faced a severe economic crisis coupled with devastating floods in a number of states including Jonglei, but is witnessing promising improvement.”

“It is a undeniable fact that the spread of the coronavirus pandemic has also complicated the effects of the crisis and this is due to the closure of income sources for many citizens,” he said.

In a separate context, the Undersecretary denied reports published by some humanitarian agencies indicating that the country is facing a threat of famine, praising roles played by organizations in providing support to those affected.

The ministry further appealed to all government partners and humanitarian organizations to join efforts in order to support the affected, emphasizing government’s commitment to find partial solutions to this crisis.