JUBA, September 19, 2026 — South Sudan has called on IGAD member states and humanitarian partners to strengthen cross-border information sharing on Nile flows and improve logistics and pre-positioning of relief supplies as the region prepares for heightened El Niño-related risks.

The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management says stronger regional coordination will be critical for timely response to potential flooding, drought and other climate-related emergencies during the October–December 2026 period.

Humanitarian Affairs Ministry Undersecretary William Chan made the call during the IGAD Regional High-Level Forum on El Niño Preparedness for the Horn of Africa, held from September 15 to 17.

“South Sudan calls upon IGAD and humanitarian partners to strengthen cross-border information sharing on Nile flows and to support pre-positioning and logistics for a timely response,” Chan said.

He said the government appreciates IGAD’s continued support in monitoring and forecasting El Niño conditions, which he said enables authorities to undertake early planning and activate anticipatory measures.

Chan said South Sudan remains highly vulnerable to climate-related hazards, with several states facing the possibility of flooding that could affect an estimated 1.3 million people and trigger widespread displacement.

He identified Jonglei, Unity, Upper Nile, Warrap, Northern Bahr el Ghazal, Lakes and Central Equatoria as among the states at risk of flooding.

At the same time, Chan said some parts of Eastern Equatoria are experiencing drought and food insecurity, highlighting the contrasting climate-related risks facing different parts of the country.

“South Sudan remains highly vulnerable to climate-related hazards, such as floods in locations like Jonglei, Unity, Upper Nile, Warrap, Northern Bahr el Ghazal, Lakes and Central Equatoria, with potential impact on an estimated 1.3 million people, extensive displacement,” Chan said.

He cited Kapoeta North and Kapoeta East counties in Eastern Equatoria among areas currently facing drought and food insecurity.

Chan also noted that Warrap State recently declared a state of emergency over drought conditions that have affected food production.

In preparation for the forecast risks, he said the government has activated a National Flood Task Force under the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management.

The task force, according to Chan, has issued early warnings to states considered vulnerable to flooding.

“With this forecasted El Niño, in response, the government of South Sudan has activated the National Flood Task Force under the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management that issue early warning to all at-risk states,” he said.

The IGAD regional forum brought together stakeholders to prepare for climate forecasts pointing to an increased risk of heavy rainfall, severe flooding and disease outbreaks across parts of the Horn of Africa during the October–December 2026 season.

Chan said South Sudan’s commitment to regional cooperation remains focused on strengthening early action and protecting lives and livelihoods as the region prepares for the anticipated climate-related threats.