As South Sudan marks its 14th year of independence, the country is battling its longest and most devastating cholera outbreak, which officials warn is entering a critical phase.
The outbreak, which began in September 2024 and was officially declared in October, has since infected over 80,000 people and claimed 1,400 lives, making it the deadliest in the nation’s history. The crisis is compounded by widespread flooding, food insecurity, displacement, and a fragile healthcare system, all unfolding amid a deepening humanitarian emergency.
“This is not merely a public health crisis, but a multi-sectoral emergency,” read a joint communiqué following an inter-ministerial meeting in Juba on Monday. The meeting, which included South Sudanese officials, civil society groups, and United Nations agencies, was called in response to the outbreak’s “alarming escalation.”
UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Anita Kiki Gbeho emphasized the urgency of collective action: “Now, more than ever, collective action is needed to reduce tensions, resolve political differences and make tangible progress in implementing peace.”
The coming eight weeks are seen as critical. With peak rains approaching, the risk of flood-induced outbreaks is rising sharply. Floodwaters not only contaminate water sources but also restrict access to affected communities, making disease containment efforts even harder. Warmer global temperatures are also expanding the regions vulnerable to cholera outbreaks.
Cholera, an acute diarrhoeal illness caused by contaminated water or food, is highly infectious but preventable and treatable. Most cases can be managed with oral rehydration salts, yet delays in treatment can be fatal within hours.
South Sudan’s limited water and sanitation infrastructure, already strained by years of conflict and mass displacement, has further collapsed in many areas. Humanitarian organizations are working to preposition supplies, expand vaccination campaigns, and rehabilitate water systems, but they face severe funding gaps. Of the $1.69 billion required to respond to the crisis and other humanitarian needs, only $368 million has been secured.
Despite the challenges, officials pledged to make cholera response and flood preparedness top national priorities, with the government vowing to facilitate humanitarian access and coordinate emergency operations.
“Time is of the essence to prevent a further escalation of the outbreak,” warned the statement. “Every delay risks more lives lost.”
Written By Rodney Mbua
