South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has declared a state of emergency in Jonglei state and Pibor Administrative Area due to communal violence and floods.
Presidential Spokesman, Ateny Wek Ateny spoke to Anadolu Agency by phone on Thursday stating, “The president has declared a state of emergency in the areas which are flooded. The reason for the emergency is to help people, not detain them.”
According to Ateny, the Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management Ministry will seek international support for the flood victims.
“Thousands of people displaced by heavy rains and floods in Jonglei are now facing the twin threats of hunger and disease,” Ateny said.
Many health facilities and nutrition centers used to shelter people are currently underwater as water levels in flood-hit areas rose by 1.5 meters.
Residents have become more vulnerable due to limited access to hygiene and sanitation, especially for women.
