Members of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank visited South Sudan to observe the humanitarian crisis. They reported severe hunger and displacement due to war and recent funding cuts from USAID, which have restricted essential services. The Canadian Government’s $4 million announcement for humanitarian aid aims to provide immediate assistance and support long-term food security in the region.
Last week, members of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank visited South Sudan to gain insight into the severe humanitarian crisis occurring in the region. Executive Director Andy Harrington and Senior Humanitarian Manager Stefan Epp-Koop witnessed the devastation caused by ongoing conflict, famine, and facility closures, exacerbated by recent funding cuts from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). These cuts, including a 90-day activity halt, have critically endangered access to essential services such as food, water, medical care, and shelter for those affected by the crisis.
South Sudan emerged as an independent nation in 2011 after separating from Sudan, following decades of civil war. The conflict reignited two years ago, significantly impacting civilians. Epp-Koop noted, “There are 26 million people in Sudan who are experiencing hunger and 11 million who are displaced within Sudan, with a million having fled to South Sudan.” The war has forced many to flee their homes and livelihoods, leading to traumatic experiences. As emphasized by Epp-Koop, “People are fleeing for their lives,” often without any possessions, to escape forced enlistment and violence.
The war in Sudan has dire consequences for its civilians, who suffer from hunger and malnutrition. Epp-Koop highlighted that the USAID funding cuts affected health care and nutrition centers, leading to closures and a reduction in essential services for refugees. Children are particularly impacted, with tens of thousands unable to receive an education due to a lack of funding. He remarked, “In the big picture, all of their international assistance amounted to less than 1% of their overall budget,” indicating the significant negative impact of this budget decision on vulnerable lives.
The Canadian Foodgrains Bank is actively engaged in providing food assistance to alleviate hunger in both Sudan and South Sudan. Recently, the Canadian Government announced a $4 million fund for humanitarian projects targeting areas of greatest need within Sudan. Epp-Koop articulated the holistic approach of the Foodgrains Bank, stating, “we are providing both that immediate assistance while helping people imagine and achieve a better future.” This dual approach aims to reduce reliance on food assistance in the long run.
The Canadian Foodgrains Bank’s visit to South Sudan highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis exacerbated by funding cuts from USAID. With millions suffering from hunger and displacement, the situation has reached critical levels. The announcement of financial support from the Canadian Government aims to address immediate needs while fostering long-term food security for affected communities. The situation calls for urgent attention to assist the civilians caught in conflict and famine.
Original Source: discoverwestman.com
