Food Security and Nutrition Support in South Sudan

The World Food Programme (WFP) South Sudan is scaling up food security and nutrition interventions in 2026 to prevent famine, protect vulnerable populations, and support early recovery. In response to ongoing humanitarian crises driven by conflict, climate shocks, economic instability, and displacement, WFP South Sudan is prioritizing famine prevention and early recovery interventions. Millions of people remain in IPC Phase 4 (Emergency) and are at risk of descending into IPC Phase 5 (Famine), particularly during the lean season when food access and availability are critically low. The program uses a layered approach of general food distribution, nutrition support, and shock-responsive recovery programs. WFP targets the most food-insecure populations, including IDPs and refugees, while integrating gender equality, protection-sensitive programming, and community engagement. Interventions include delivering food assistance to populations facing acute food insecurity, implementing area-based interventions that combine immediate food distribution with nutrition and early recovery support, and running lean season response programs from March/April to August.