Norway has contributed 128.6 million Norwegian kroner ($12.5 million) to the U.N. World Food Programme (WFP) to help address rising food insecurity and malnutrition across South Sudan, the agency said.
WFP said the funding will support life-saving food and nutrition assistance for vulnerable communities, while also helping to strengthen resilience and maintain critical services that support humanitarian operations.
The contribution comes as hunger deepens across the country. According to the latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, about 7.56 million people — more than half of South Sudan’s population — are projected to face acute food insecurity at the peak of the lean season between April and July 2026, when food supplies are typically at their lowest.
The report also estimates that malnutrition affects about 2.1 million children, as well as more than 1 million pregnant and breastfeeding women.
“Food security is the foundation of lasting peace and a spark for economic recovery,” said Mary-Ellen McGroarty, WFP’s country director in South Sudan, calling Norway’s support critical as needs continue to grow.
WFP said part of the funding will be used to support smallholder farmers and its home-grown school feeding program, aimed at boosting local food production and strengthening community resilience to climate shocks, conflict and economic instability. The funds will also help sustain shared logistics and aviation services that enable humanitarian access across the country.
Norwegian Ambassador to South Sudan Roar Haugsdal said Norway remains committed to supporting WFP’s work in the country, with a focus on strengthening livelihoods and promoting long-term stability.
Norway has been a long-standing donor to WFP operations in South Sudan. The latest contribution brings Norway’s total support to WFP in the country since 2020 to more than $29 million, the agency said.
South Sudan has faced years of conflict, flooding and economic disruption, leaving millions dependent on humanitarian assistance.