UNICEF Restores Life-Saving Services in Conflict-Affected Areas of Jonglei

UNICEF and partners restored health, nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene services in conflict-affected Wiechjol and Waat after months of disruption.

Rapid Response Mechanism missions delivered 8.3 metric tons of supplies, primary health care, nutrition screening, water-treatment support, hygiene promotion and referrals.

Teams screened 1,666 children for acute malnutrition, identifying 146 with severe and 602 with moderate acute malnutrition. They also screened 182 pregnant and lactating women, referring 58 for treatment.

Health workers provided 1,241 consultations, including 250 for children under 5, and 249 antenatal care consultations. Common conditions included malaria, respiratory infections, diarrhea and skin diseases.

UNICEF and partners distributed soap, buckets, water purifiers and filters to thousands of households. They also provided dignity kits to 200 women and girls and hygiene information to 2,075 people.

The response followed conflict, displacement and insecurity that disrupted aid operations and damaged or closed health and nutrition facilities in Akobo and Nyirol counties.

Although some humanitarian operations have resumed, insecurity, tensions and access constraints persist. Akobo and Nyirol continue to face severe food and nutrition challenges, with acute malnutrition in Akobo West reaching 22.3 percent.

UNICEF warned that children and other vulnerable groups remain at risk because of limited access to basic services, displacement and weakened protection systems. Sustained humanitarian access and support are needed to restore essential services in northern Jonglei.