What is the situation in South Sudan?

South Sudan became the world's newest nation when it attained independence on 9 July 2011, after years of civil unrest between the North and South. Despite early optimism, South Sudan, today, is facing many challenges directly affecting families and children, including renewed civil conflict. Compounding this situation, an ongoing drought across many regions in Africa, has caused poor crops and high food prices. It is estimated that 4.7 million people will lack sufficient food this year, with a million already suffering severe food insecurity. The problem is escalated by the high number of South Sudanese returning since independence, and with another 500,000 - 700,000 expected back in the coming months.

Focus countries: South Sudan.

Why is World Vision in South Sudan?

Warrap state has seen the recent return of thousands of families, adding to pressures on limited basic services. World Vision, the World Food Programme (WFP), UNICEF, government agencies, community organisations, and other non-governmental organisations are working together to come to the aid of these displaced families and children. Many of the children have become separated from their families or caregivers, and are looking after younger siblings. Shelter, and sanitation and hygiene facilities in transition facilities are poor. Above all, the children are at increased risk of abuse and exploitation.

How can you get involved?

The displaced children in South Sudan need your help now. They need immediate food, and to be protected and reunited with their families. You can help us by making a donation today and giving vital support to:

• Providing emergency food aid
• Helping trace and reunite families
• Establishing child-friendly spaces, and training staff and volunteers
• Providing protection services and psychosocial care to displaced families

Your generous support will help give these vulnerable children a future. They need our help today.

Where World Vision is partnering with WFP, every $1 given will provide $6 worth of vital aid.

Find out more about supporting vulnerable children through Children in Crisis for as little as $10 a month.

Rebecca and her children without basic services in new country

Rebecca Achol Bol and her children, Monica Atiang and 7-year old Boana Deng, wait to be treated at a clinic in Kuajok, Warrap State.

For Rebecca Achol Bol, coming home to South Sudan after 20 years of refuge in Khartoum, was something she was eagerly anticipating. Though she was aware that her country had been devastated by decades of civil war, she and her two small children were not prepared for life in a temporary camp without basic services. "I hoped for something better. Now, we don't even have a place to sleep. The children are out in the cold, constantly coughing," she said. Rebecca's son, 7-year-old Boana Deng, also feels the strain. "Here are many problems. I am not going to school and there is little to eat. I get sick a lot, because of sleeping in the open. There are a lot of mosquitoes and they bite me," Boana Deng says. With your help, we can support families like Rebecca and her two children, to look forward to a better future in their new country.