Juba, South Sudan – December 16, 2024
The South Sudan Grassroots Initiative for Development (SSGID) applauds the launch of the 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP), an ambitious and essential initiative to address the escalating humanitarian challenges in South Sudan. This vital plan, unveiled by the humanitarian community in collaboration with the South Sudan government, calls for $1.7 billion to deliver life-saving assistance to 5.4 million people facing the most critical needs.
South Sudan’s ongoing crises—driven by conflict, the severe impacts of climate change, economic instability, and disease outbreaks—have left 9.3 million people, nearly 70% of the population, in need of urgent humanitarian support. The HNRP highlights an inspiring vision of not only providing immediate relief but also fostering long-term resilience and sustainability through investments in basic services and livelihood opportunities.
“We are inspired by the focus on durable solutions and resilience building,” said Romano Ngor Kuot CEO of South Sudan Grassroots Initiative for Development (SSGID). “This aligns perfectly with our mission to support the most vulnerable communities in achieving lasting progress and independence.”
“This aligns perfectly with our mission to support the most vulnerable communities in achieving lasting progress and independence”. Romano Ngor
SSGID commends the proactive efforts of both the government and international partners in launching the 2025 HNRP. As an organization committed to responding to humanitarian crises and empowering rural and pastoral communities, SSGID pledges to actively support this collective mission through grassroots mobilization, capacity building, and resource distribution.
“We must all work together to save lives and build hope,” added Romano . “The 2025 HNRP is not just a plan; it is a call to action for everyone dedicated to a better future for South Sudan.”
A Call for Humanitarian Action in South Sudan
The humanitarian community in South Sudan has unveiled the 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP), marking a pivotal effort to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in the nation. This ambitious initiative seeks $1.7 billion in funding to provide lifesaving assistance to 5.4 million people facing severe hardships. With 9.3 million people—nearly 69% of South Sudan’s population—expected to require some form of humanitarian aid in 2025, the plan underscores the dire need for immediate and effective intervention.
Key Challenges Driving South Sudan’s Humanitarian Crisis
Conflict and Political Instability
South Sudan’s protracted conflict continues to drive displacement, disrupt livelihoods, and deepen vulnerabilities. Violence remains a primary factor in the displacement of communities and the destruction of infrastructure essential for stability.
Impact of Climate Change
The adverse effects of climate change exacerbate the crisis. From severe flooding to prolonged droughts, unpredictable weather patterns disrupt agriculture and livelihoods, leaving millions in urgent need of assistance.
Economic Turmoil and Disease Outbreaks
Economic challenges, coupled with disease outbreaks, have further strained the country’s already fragile systems. The compounding impact of these factors limits access to basic services, worsens food insecurity, and increases health risks for vulnerable populations.
Sudan Conflict Spillover
The ongoing conflict in neighboring Sudan adds another layer of complexity. Since April 2023, over 905,000 people have fled to South Sudan, with an additional 337,000 expected to arrive in 2025. This influx places immense pressure on already overstretched resources and infrastructure.
Food Insecurity and Malnutrition: A Looming Threat
The 2025 HNRP highlights alarming levels of food insecurity and malnutrition.
- Severe Food Insecurity: According to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report, 6.4 million South Sudanese are already facing crisis-level food insecurity (IPC Phase 3+), a figure projected to rise to 7.7 million during the lean season from April to July 2025.
- Child Malnutrition: The plan estimates that 2.08 million children under five will be at risk of acute malnutrition, with 650,000 expected to suffer from severe acute malnutrition—a stark 26% and 33% increase from 2024 projections, respectively.
The Goals of the 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan
The HNRP not only aims to provide emergency relief but also seeks to lay the groundwork for sustainable solutions:
- Lifesaving Assistance: Deliver critical aid to the 5.4 million most vulnerable individuals, including food, healthcare, and shelter.
- Building Resilience: Invest in basic services and livelihood opportunities to empower communities to transition away from dependence on humanitarian assistance.
- Collaborative Approach: Partner with local and international stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of relief and development initiatives.
Hon. Albino Akol Atak Mayom, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, emphasized the importance of resilience-building efforts, stating:
“Collaboration will continue in 2025—not only to bring relief to people affected by crises but also to support durable solutions and build their resilience by investing in the provision of basic services and livelihood opportunities.”
Humanitarian Community’s Commitment to South Sudan
The humanitarian response plan reflects a coordinated effort to address the most pressing needs. Ms. Anita Kiki Gbeho, Humanitarian Coordinator for South Sudan, emphasized the importance of the HNRP:
“The 2025 HNRP paints an accurate picture of the most acute needs of vulnerable people across the country and a plan for assistance that is realistic and, most importantly, life-saving.”
The Way Forward: Urgent Global Support Needed
To meet the $1.7 billion funding requirement, the international community must come together to support South Sudan’s humanitarian efforts. Every dollar invested not only saves lives but also contributes to creating a foundation for long-term development and resilience.