Cholera Outbreak South Sudan: South Sudan is facing its most severe cholera outbreak in two decades, according to a new report from UNICEF. Since late September 2024, nearly 40,000 cases and 694 deaths have been recorded, making it the deadliest outbreak since the country gained independence in 2011.
Alarming Cholera Statistics in South Sudan
UNICEF’s latest figures reveal that from September 28, 2024, to March 18, 2025, South Sudan reported 40,000 cholera cases and 694 deaths. This surge has overwhelmed the nation’s fragile healthcare system, with nine of its ten states affected. Jonglei State in the east remains the hardest-hit region.
Verity Rushton, UNICEF’s emergency specialist, described the situation as the “worst outbreak South Sudan as an independent country has ever faced.” Poor sanitation, lack of clean water, and ongoing conflict have accelerated the spread of the waterborne disease.
Children Hit Hard by Cholera Outbreak in South Sudan
One of the most devastating aspects of the cholera outbreak South Sudan is its disproportionate impact on children. UNICEF reports that 50% of cases involve children under 15 years old, with one-third of fatalities occurring in those under 14.
“Children are dying from a preventable disease because they lack access to basic necessities like clean water and medical care,” said Rushton, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian intervention.
Regional Cholera Crisis Extends Beyond South Sudan
The cholera outbreak in South Sudan reflects a larger public health emergency across eastern and southern Africa. Angola, for example, has recorded 7,500 cases and 294 deaths between January 7 and March 18, 2025. Across 16 African countries, over 178,000 cholera cases have been confirmed since January 2024.
In South Sudan, the crisis is worsened by recent violence. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that 50,000 people were displaced in Upper Nile State due to conflict, disrupting cholera treatment and forcing the evacuation of 23 humanitarian workers.
Efforts to Combat Cholera Outbreak South Sudan
Despite the mounting challenges, aid agencies are working tirelessly to curb the outbreak. UNICEF and its partners have implemented vaccination campaigns, supplied medical aid, and expanded water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programs.
“We need the continued commitment of governments, the private sector, and individuals who believe every child deserves a future,” said Etleva Kadilli, UNICEF Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa.
The South Sudan government, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other UN agencies, is deploying rapid response teams and distributing millions of water purification tablets. However, ongoing funding gaps and logistical barriers remain significant challenges.
Future Outlook for South Sudan Amid Cholera Crisis
As South Sudan’s cholera outbreak reaches a 20-year high, the country stands at a critical juncture. Conflict, displacement, and inadequate infrastructure have created a humanitarian emergency requiring immediate international attention.
Without sustained global support, public health experts warn that the death toll could rise even higher. For the latest updates on the cholera outbreak South Sudan, follow trusted news outlets and UNICEF’s official reports.
