Between 28 February and 1 March 2024, a Joint Rapid Needs Assessment (JRNA) was carried out in Wonduruba Payam, Juba County, to assess the humanitarian situation of communities displaced due to escalating armed conflict. The mission was led by UNOCHA South Sudan in collaboration with Modesto Agriculture and Development Organization (MADO), Hope Agency for Development Organization (HADO), World Health Organization (WHO), ACROSS, and Change Agency.
The assessment team found that an estimated 8,670 individuals—including children, women, men, and persons with disabilities—were displaced from their homes and communities as a result of the conflict. The displaced populations are currently residing in makeshift shelters and host communities across various villages in Wonduruba Payam.
Key Findings:
The assessment revealed critical and immediate humanitarian needs, including:
• Food assistance for families who fled without supplies and are unable to access livelihoods
• Emergency shelter, as most displaced persons are living in open or overcrowded spaces
• Clean water and sanitation facilities, to reduce the risk of waterborne disease outbreaks
• Health services, particularly for children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses or disabilities
The humanitarian partners are calling for urgent mobilization of resources and coordinated intervention to avert further deterioration of living conditions and protect vulnerable populations.
“This assessment highlights the urgent and life-threatening gaps that thousands of displaced individuals in Wonduruba are facing,” said a spokesperson for UNOCHA. “We urge humanitarian actors and donors to prioritize this crisis and respond swiftly to alleviate suffering.”
The findings of the joint assessment will inform the design and targeting of a multi-sectoral response, with an emphasis on dignity, protection, and inclusion of all affected community members.