The UN Humanitarian Coordinator in South Sudan says partners urgently need $220 million for critical actions before the end of the dry season.

Eugene Owusu says the actions include supplying food to areas that were cut off by the conflict and prepositioning food ahead of the rainy season in May.

In a statement, Mr Owusu warned that the situation would be worse if aid agencies are unable to act now and the cost would be more costly.

“I’m appealing to donors to give generously, and to give now, to replenish the CHF and fund other critical components of the response, including core pipelines,” said Mr. Owusu.

“We are facing widespread food insecurity, malnutrition, displacement and disease. We need funding now to save lives, alleviate suffering and get supplies out before the rains set in again.

This year, about two per cent of the $1.3 billion required to provide life-saving assistance and protection has been received, according to the UN.