Members of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank recently visited South Sudan amidst a humanitarian crisis exacerbated by war and funding cuts. Executive Director Andy Harrington and Senior Humanitarian Manager Stefan Epp-Koop reported on the dire conditions faced by civilians, resulting from a lack of essential resources. With a recent $4 million commitment from the Canadian Government, there is hope for providing immediate and sustainable food assistance.
Recently, members of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank visited South Sudan to witness the dire humanitarian crisis exacerbated by war and famine. Canadian Foodgrains Bank Executive Director Andy Harrington and Senior Humanitarian Manager Stefan Epp-Koop observed the severe consequences stemming from war and financial cutbacks, which have endangered access to essential food, water, medical care, and shelter for vulnerable populations.
The backdrop of the crisis is rooted in the division of Sudan and South Sudan in 2011 following years of civil war. The current war in Sudan, which erupted in April 2023, has led to catastrophic humanitarian conditions, affecting civilians significantly. According to Epp-Koop, “There are 26 million people in Sudan right now who are experiencing hunger. There are 11 million people who have been displaced within Sudan.”
The personal accounts of those affected by war reveal the harrowing situation. Epp-Koop noted that many individuals flee with minimal possessions, leaving behind their homes and communities to escape violence and ensure their children’s safety. The conflict has precipitated a humanitarian crisis where civilians desperately search for basic necessities while grappling with the loss of livelihoods.
Cutbacks from organizations such as USAID are critically jeopardizing humanitarian efforts, leading to the closure of healthcare facilities and schools, as well as reduced support for refugees. Epp-Koop highlighted, “…all of their international assistance amounted to less than 1% of their overall budget,” emphasizing the disproportionate impact of these cuts on vulnerable populations.
In response to the crisis, the Canadian Foodgrains Bank is actively involved in multiple projects aimed at providing urgent food assistance and supporting long-term food security in the affected regions. Recently, the Canadian Government announced a $4 million investment to bolster humanitarian efforts in Sudan, addressing immediate needs while fostering sustainable solutions for the future.
The humanitarian crisis in South Sudan and Sudan highlights the profound implications of war and financial cutbacks, significantly affecting civilians. The Canadian Foodgrains Bank, in partnership with the Canadian Government, is making efforts to address immediate food security needs while also working towards sustainable future solutions. Urgent humanitarian assistance remains critical to mitigate the suffering of those impacted by this ongoing crisis.
Original Source: discoverwestman.com
