(BOR) – The national government, through the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, is preparing to deliver emergency aid to people affected by recent violence in Fangak County, Jonglei State.
Minister Albino Akol Atak confirmed the plans following a meeting with the Governor of Jonglei State, Dr Riek Gai Kok, held to address the urgent needs of displaced and vulnerable communities in the area.
Speaking to South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC), Minister Atak said the ministry is coordinating efforts to support the affected population with food, shelter, and other forms of assistance. He stated that logistical arrangements were being finalised and that relief distribution would begin soon.
“The Ministry is working in coordination with state authorities to ensure timely delivery of assistance to those who have suffered displacement and loss due to the violence,” Atak said.
The exact number of affected people has not yet been officially released, but humanitarian sources in the region estimate that hundreds of families may have been displaced by recent inter-communal fighting.
Governor Riek Gai Kok welcomed the national government’s intervention and expressed hope that the aid would reach the most vulnerable without delay. He stressed that many households in Fangak County are in dire need of food, basic shelter materials, and medical support.
“The people of Fangak are suffering. They urgently need food and shelter, especially women, children and the elderly,” said Governor Riek.
Although the full scope of the violence remains unclear, local officials have reported that several villages were affected, with people fleeing their homes due to insecurity. Roads and waterways in the area have also been disrupted, which may slow down humanitarian deliveries.
At the current official exchange rate of $1 to 4,600 South Sudanese Pounds (SSP) as of July 2025, any emergency operation requires substantial financial resources. Relief logistics for a region like Fangak, accessible mostly by river or air, can be costly. A breakdown of possible humanitarian needs is illustrated in the table below:
| Relief Item/Service | Estimated Cost (SSP) | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Food supplies (per week) | 230,000,000 SSP | $50,000 |
| Temporary shelter materials | 92,000,000 SSP | $20,000 |
| Medical supplies | 138,000,000 SSP | $30,000 |
| Transportation & logistics | 161,000,000 SSP | $35,000 |
| Total Estimated Budget | 621,000,000 SSP | $135,000 |
Authorities say the ministry is also engaging international humanitarian partners to bridge funding and logistical gaps. The ongoing insecurity in Jonglei, particularly in counties like Fangak, continues to challenge aid efforts in South Sudan.
The government is calling on both national and international partners to support emergency response operations to prevent a worsening humanitarian situation in the region.
