Conflict causes major displacement and destruction of markets
Summary
Violent conflict and civil strife in South Sudan since mid-December, which have killed thousands and displaced approximately 190,000 people, is evolving into a major humanitarian crisis. Fighting between government of South Sudan and rebel forces has affected six out of 10 states, with conflict concentrated in the densely-populated eastern half of the country (Figure). In addition to the severe impact on the health and security of displaced and local populations, the recent conflict has disrupted the harvest and commodity flows in important trade corridors. Food insecurity among the worst-affected populations, particularly in Jonglei, Upper Nile, and Unity states, is likely at Crisis (IPC Phase 3) levels, or worse. Crisis and possibly Emergency (IPC Phase 4) levels of acute food insecurity are likely in the coming months if conflict and diminished food access persist.