
Help Children and Families in South Sudan
Conflict, political instability and the increasingly devastating effects of climate change have left millions of children in the world's youngest country in urgent need of humanitarian support. UNICEF is there, working with local partners to strengthen the health system, improve access to education, provide child protection, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and nutrition. Learn more, including how to help.
Why UNICEF works in South Sudan
Decades of conflict and instability, climate shocks drive humanitarian priorities
The world's youngest nation, South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011, only for civil conflict to erupt in 2013. Sporadic violence has continued for years, despite a peace agreement signed in 2018 that installed a transitional government. In 2025, a surge in violence and political tensions has renewed concerns that the country is once again teetering on the edge of catastrophe.

At the same time, seasonal flooding has grown increasingly severe due to climate change, disrupting lives, perpetuating widespread food insecurity and inter-communal strife over scarce resources. Malnutrition, displacement, disease outbreaks and high school dropout rates remain major challenges.
Related: UNICEF in Africa
Challenges facing children in South Sudan
UNICEF data indicates that 59 percent of the population lacks access to safe drinking water. Outbreaks of preventable diseases are common, and 1 in 10 children do not survive past their 5th birthday. More than half of all girls are married before age 18.
4 of 5 children in South Sudan face multidimensional poverty
Brutal conflict in neighboring Sudan has only intensified needs in South Sudan as the country absorbs hundreds of thousands of war refugees despite weak health and social service infrastructure. Neighboring countries are also dealing with multiple humanitarian crises, including the Central African Republic to the west and Ethiopia to the east.
Despite major cuts in humanitarian and development funding, UNICEF emergency response teams remain on the ground in South Sudan, deliver lifesaving assistance and protection, working alongside local partners.
UNICEF remains committed to supporting the Government of National Unity in prioritizing and delivering short- and long-term social services to children in need. In doing so, UNICEF looks to complement government efforts to provide humanitarian support to those most impacted by ongoing crises.

How UNICEF is making a difference for children in South Sudan
UNICEF has had a presence in South Sudan since 1989, operating under a "One Country, Two Areas" program when South Sudan was still part of Sudan. The current country office was established in July 2011 upon South Sudan gaining its independence.
UNICEF’s work in South Sudan is rooted in a passion for and commitment to children’s rights. It is conducted in partnership with the government, line ministries, partners and children and young people. Focus areas and priorities include strengthening the health system, improving access to education, and providing child protection, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and nutrition.

Here is a look at UNICEF-supported programs and interventions in South Sudan.
Health and nutrition programs
A major priority for UNICEF in South Sudan is to support routine immunization to protect children from vaccine-preventable disease and screening and treating children suffering from severe acute malnutrition, including in conflict areas.
UNICEF also works with local partners to provide nutrition counseling for caregivers.
Improving access to education
UNICEF is committed to working with its partners in South Sudan to improve access to safe, inclusive and quality education for every child, by renovating schools and building new ones, and supporting teachers with training and teaching materials, including textbooks for students.
Schools are not just for learning; when children attend school, they are better protected from violence, exploitation and abuse. For refugee and displaced children, classroom routines provide stability and a sense of normalcy.
UNICEF establishes safe learning spaces in displacement camps and provides school supplies and teacher training. Mobile classrooms also help ensure access to education.

Protecting vulnerable children
UNICEF has a long history of reuniting separated families and providing psychosocial support for survivors of violence. UNICEF also works to prevent recruitment of children into armed groups and to end the harmful practice of child marriage.
Water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) efforts
Alongside local partners, UNICEF is rehabilitating wells and installing water points to improve access to safe water. Hygiene education programs focus on preventing cholera outbreaks.
UNICEF is also supporting the development of sustainable sources of safe water, which includes upgrading water systems to run on solar energy.

On the ground in South Sudan
Samuel Patti, an immunization specialist, speaks to his experience working with UNICEF South Sudan to improve the lives of children and their families. Watch the video:
How to help children in South Sudan
There are many ways to support children:
- donate monthly to provide ongoing support
- fundraise or share content about UNICEF USA and the mission on social media
- explore corporate partnerships and legacy giving options
UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save and protect the most vulnerable children. Learn more about what UNICEF does to ensure that every child can grow up healthy, educated, protected and respected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is UNICEF working in South Sudan?
UNICEF works in South Sudan to provide lifesaving support to children and families affected by conflict, food insecurity and limited access to health and education.
What types of aid does UNICEF provide in South Sudan?
UNICEF delivers food, clean water, vaccinations, education and protection services to vulnerable populations in South Sudan.
How can I help children in South Sudan?
You can help by donating to UNICEF USA, starting a fundraiser, or spreading awareness of our work.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes, donations to UNICEF USA are tax-deductible in the United States.