A severe food crisis in Lafon County, Eastern Equatoria State, has reportedly claimed the lives of more than 40 people, with local authorities warning that the situation is deteriorating rapidly.
County officials put the reported death toll at 49, saying the number has increased considerably in recent weeks.
The crisis is affecting entire communities, but young children and older residents are reportedly facing some of the greatest risks.
Lafon County Commissioner Orupi David said some elderly people are unable to travel far enough to find wild foods, leaving them particularly exposed to the shortage.
Food assistance has reached only a limited number of families. Authorities say a recent distribution supported about 100 households, mainly targeting lactating mothers, people living with disabilities and elderly residents. However, officials say thousands of people remain in need of assistance.
The shortage has also begun driving families away from the county. Residents are reportedly heading toward Juba, Torit and Magwi in search of food, with some families leaving their homes with household possessions.
Poor agricultural production is believed to have contributed to the emergency. A prolonged period of dry weather between March and early July reportedly affected food production and depleted household reserves.
Humanitarian agencies are assessing the scale of the crisis. ACTED is reportedly conducting an assessment, while the Norwegian Refugee Council is expected to support further humanitarian efforts.
County authorities are calling for immediate action and larger-scale food assistance, warning that existing interventions are not enough to address the growing humanitarian needs.
The situation remains critical, with local officials urging humanitarian partners to expand their response before more lives are lost.
