Juba, South Sudan, May 13, 2026 — The International Rescue Committee (IRC) in South Sudan is warning the escalating conflict in Akobo County, Jonglei State, which began in December 2025, has triggered mass displacement and an alarming surge in humanitarian need, pushing communities closer to IPC Phase 5 (Catastrophe) malnutrition levels.
An estimated 200,000 people have been displaced, with at least 100,000 civilians fleeing into Ethiopia. Akobo had served as a shelter for over 270,000 displaced persons, most of whom are women and children. Recent fighting and the evacuation directive by armed forces on March 6 forced the near-emptying of the town, draining the humanitarian presence and access to basic services
Alarmingly, approximately thousands of people in Jonglei state have lost access to healthcare, including acute disruptions to the only functioning hospital in Akobo, which was looted and abandoned. Intensifying fighting, restricted humanitarian access, and seasonal flooding may thrust this population into IPC Phase 5, risking famine conditions.
Richard Orengo, IRC South Sudan Country Director, said:
“The conflict in Akobo is compounding already desperate conditions. With children and families deprived of food, water, and medical care, we face a looming humanitarian catastrophe. We urgently call on all parties to the conflict to halt military operations, grant unimpeded humanitarian access, and fully implement the revitalized peace agreement which is essential to protect civilians. The security and access constraints are worsened by the looming exit of UNMISS support systems and forces.”
The IRC is calling for a scale up of and immediate access to food, water, shelter, health, and protection services across Jonglei and neighboring regions. The IRC is also calling on warring parties to prioritize unconditional safety for civilians, humanitarian staff, and infrastructure, including hospitals and other livelihood services and restoration of peace and security, support for voluntary, safe, and dignified returns before the rainy season increases risk. IRC urges the UN to retain UNMISS support systems that are essential in protecting displaced communities, humanitarian aid, staff and assets.
The IRC has responded to crises across South Sudan for over three decades, delivering healthcare, protection, and economic empowerment. Today, we’re working through partners in Jonglei and beyond, providing emergency medical services, protection, and delivering livelihood assistance to displaced communities.