S. Sudan: UN reaches 100,000 flood-affected victims

October 26, 2013 (JUBA) – At least 100,000 out of the 156,000 flood victims in South Sudan now have access to aid, the acting United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator in the country said.

A number of families camped at the roadside at Hai-Machuor round-about in Bor September 4, 2013 (ST)

“At this difficult time when people across many parts of South Sudan are struggling to cope with flooding, I want to express my appreciation to the humanitarian community and government for the response efforts so far,” Chris Nikoi said in a statement.

Partners have reached nearly 100,000 of the 156,000 people identified, so far as affected by flooding since August, he added.

With nearly 60% of the country flooded said to be flooded, the UN said its humanitarian responsive to the situation had become expensive due inaccessibility of most areas.

It however stressed it will continue providing more assistance with its partners, inform of food, household materials, water and sanitation and medical assistance, which are being transported by any available means.

“Humanitarians appreciate the government’s leadership and proactive efforts in responding to the needs of flood-affected people across the country, including the establishment of a flood response fund and task force at national level”, the statement noted.

This commitment will help complement efforts to ease the suffering of flood-affected people, it further stressed.

About 37,000 households, according to a preliminary assessment report released by the government in August, were affected in the country, with Unity, Upper Nile and Jonglei states reportedly worst-hit.

(ST)