South Sudan faces multiple climate change crises including floods, droughts, and extreme heatwaves which exacerbate sexual exploitation and gender-based vulnerabilities affecting the quality of life, putting women and girls at constant threat to lose lives especially in poor resourced or absence of infrastructures.
In South Sudan, climate change is not just an environmental crisis; it is a gender crisis which worsens the health and wellbeing of women and girls. A newly released Vulnerability Study conducted by UNFPA, in partnership with the Sudd Institute and the National Bureau of Statistics, has revealed the devastating impact of climate change on women and girls in South Sudan, particularly in Malakal, Kapoeta South, and Rubkona. The three study locations were prioritized due to their high exposure to climate-induced disasters, large, displaced populations, and pre-existing vulnerabilities that make women and girls particularly at risk. The findings were validated in a high-level workshop attended by government officials, humanitarian actors, and development partners.
The study underscores that flooding (98% in Malakal, 92% in Rubkona) and drought (affecting 68% in Kapoeta South) are driving displacement, food insecurity, and livelihood losses. Heatwaves are also an emerging threat, with school closures and severe health risks reported in early 2025. These climate stressors disproportionately affect women and girls, increasing gender-based violence (GBV), restricting access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services, and deepening gender inequalities.
The study also revealed that climate-induced disruptions are worsening maternal mortality (1,223 deaths per 100,000 live births), limiting contraceptive access (below 5%), and increasing child marriages. Flooded health facilities and extreme heat events have further strained healthcare access.
"Climate change is a profound humanitarian and development challenge particularly in this youngest nation.  Women and girls are bearing the brunt, facing increased GBV risks, restricted healthcare access, and heightened economic insecurity. We must act urgently." said Suzanne Mandong, UNFPA South Sudan Country Officer in Charge. Women and girls at risk: A Climate-Induced Crisis
The study finds that 49.9% of respondents reported an increase in GBV in climate-affected areas. Drought and economic hardships are intensifying intimate partner violence (IPV), early marriages associated with high bride price considered as a source of income to families, and survival-driven exploitation. Displacement due to floods has left many women and girls in unsafe shelters, exposing them to heightened risks such as rape
"We cannot separate climate resilience from gender justice," stated Honourable James Hoth Mai, the National Minister of Labour. "Women must be empowered to lead climate adaptation efforts, and we must integrate GBV prevention into climate policies."In Rubkona, Tutchar aged 39, is a widow and mother of five children are among displaced people who have had to live a nomadic life due to natural disasters – floods. More than half of the displaced population are women and girls who continue to be subjected to violence especially during firewood collection, including sexual abuse, rape, and forced and child marriage.
“Most often, girls not attending school are expected and forced to marry. Child or Forced Marriage is seen as the solution to alleviate the family’s poverty, especially during flooding,” says Tutchar.Beyond floods, extreme heat waves in South Sudan exacerbates existing educational inequalities for girls in South Sudan significantly impacting girls' education by forcing school closures, which disrupts their learning and lead to increased vulnerability to issues like early marriage, sexual exploitation and abuse and child labor, as girls are already disproportionately affected by lack of education in the country due to existing societal factors.
Call to Action: Gender-Responsive Climate Adaptation
The report highlights urgent recommendations, including expanding GBV response services in displacement settings, strengthening women’s economic empowerment through financial inclusion, integrating gender-responsive climate policies into national development plans and investing in climate-resilient healthcare systems to safeguard SRH services.
"Without targeted interventions such as climate-resilient health infrastructure like mobile clinics and heat adaptive policies, climate change will continue to exacerbate gender inequalities and violence," concluded Ms. Mandong. "This report provides the evidence we need to advocate for policies that empower societies and protect women and girls in the face of climate change."As South Sudan grapples with climate change, this study serves as a wake-up call for urgent, gender-sensitive action and improved SRH services that are crucial. UNFPA remains committed to working with partners to ensure that no one is left behind.

 

If Veronica had a nickname, it would be Ms. Sunshine, because despite the adversity she had to witness at a tender age, she smiles so bright, and one cannot miss her contagious enthusiasm, joy and positivity. Veronica Nyakuol is one of the 33 women that comprise the Victim Support Group (VSG) benefitting from the Transitional Justice project in Mangaten. The project is funded by the United Nations Secretary General's Peacebuilding Fund and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with Vision for Humanity and the Kingdom of the Netherlands
Since 2022, the Transitional Justice project has served as a platform for fostering healing, reconciliation, and recovery through different life-skills and psycho-social counselling. The Mangaten camp, home to 16,000 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), is one of the places where this project was implemented.
Veronica, a 21-year-old, serves as an excellent interpreter for the group. She performs her role with a warm, welcoming smile that never fades. Wearing a white t-shirt decorated with "I am empowered" across her chest, she truly embodies this message through her actions. A natural leader, Veronica approaches her responsibilities with infectious joy and graceful confidence.
When she is not at the camp, she is pursuing International Relations at the College of Humanity and Social Sciences in Juba. Her passion, she says, is to help other women to walk the healing journey. She also hopes to advocate for voiceless people, especially mothers, to identify the passion within themselves.
Beyond the psycho-social training, the women have been equipped with life-skills to make body jelly, shampoo, bar soap, and basket weaving. The products created are of good quality and they are quickly grabbed off the market. They are also cheap compared to the market price. In addition, they are sold within the camp, creating a bridge for the supply/ demand gap. 
When they make sales, 50% of the profits goes to re-investment of the raw materials, while the other 50% is divided among the women, to enhance their economic wellbeing at the household level. 
Veronica describes her life before the project as financially tough. “It was hard to access school because of the heavy school fees, and we barely managed to survive on my mother’s salary for basic needs.” Her mother works in a restaurant. Thanks to the VSG project, the profit share that she takes home allows her to contribute to her school fees and to the needs at home such as charcoal and food.
As part of their training, the participants underwent a dialogue that taught them about basic human and women’s rights. It was an eye-opening session because it taught them about their role and value in society. “The IDP girls and mothers that attended the training felt a true sense of value. Regardless of their status as IDPs, today they are  proud South Sudanese. Our voices are meaningful.”- said Veronica.
The participants also learned about the action plan of the government towards the people in IDPs and got comprehensive learning about Transitional Justice and Reconciliation. “The training on Transitional Justice allowed us to feel more confident and aware of our rights, and my hope is that other women and girls in the camp can also get the opportunity to learn about this.”- said Veronica.
The Peacebuilding Fund's Transitional Justice project has transformed lives through women's empowerment, as exemplified by Veronica's journey. By combining psychosocial counseling with practical skills training, the project has provided healing while creating economic opportunities to the participants. Women like Veronica now contribute to household finances, pursue education, and understand their rights. This holistic approach has built a supportive community where trauma evolves into triumph, demonstrating effective peacebuilding through women's empowerment. 

Every year on April 4th, the world observes International Mine Awareness Day and Assistance in Mine Action, a crucial moment to reflect on the devastating impact of landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW) and to recognize the efforts dedicated to their removal. Under the theme, “Safe Futures Start Here,” this year holds particular significance for South Sudan as we commemorate over 20 years of dedicated mine action in the country. 
In South Sudan, where decades of conflict have left vast areas dangerously contaminated, the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) plays a crucial role in making land safe and fostering sustainable development. By clearing landmines and ERW, UNMAS saves lives and limbs, and unlocks opportunities for progress in key areas such as agriculture, education, livelihoods, and human settlement. This vital work directly contributes to implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), paving the way for a brighter and safer future for all South Sudanese.
Revitalizing Agriculture and Food Security (SDG 2: Zero Hunger)
South Sudan's fertile lands are crucial to achieving SDG Goal 2: Zero Hunger. However, for far too long, landmines and other ERW have severely hindered farming activities. UNMAS, in collaboration with the National Mine Action Authority and mine action partners, has released 15,000 agricultural areas from ERW contamination, enabling farmers to safely cultivate their fields, improving food security at both the household and community levels. As one returnee farmer from Malakal, Upper Nile State, stated, “It used to be scary to farm here. Now that the mines are gone, we can finally work our fields safely.” The impact of mine extends beyond immediate agricultural output. Removing these deadly devices has created the conditions for displaced communities to return to their ancestral lands, reconnect with their livelihoods, and rebuild their lives. This return to farming promotes household nutrition and the local economies through the production and trade of agricultural goods. Furthermore, recognizing that clearance of EO-contaminated areas is a slow, long-term process, mine action teams conduct Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE). These initiatives equip farmers, pastoralists and community members with the knowledge and skills to identify potential threats and adopt safe practices, ensuring they can work their lands confidently and without fear. 
Enabling Access to Education 
The presence of mines and other ERW has impacted South Sudan's access to education. These explosive hazards have rendered many schools and transportation routes unsafe due to contamination. Recognizing that children are naturally curious and playful, often don't strictly follow rules, and tragically constitute approximately 80% of victims of landmines and ERW, the threat to their education is particularly acute. UNMAS has worked tirelessly to clear these hazards, allowing children to return to school in a secure environment. Furthermore, clearance efforts have facilitated reconstruction and expansion projects in areas where essential school infrastructure was previously abandoned due to explosive threats. This fosters a safety culture and allows for increased enrollment and improved learning conditions. 
Restoring Livelihoods and Economic Opportunities 
Landmines have limited movement, trade, and job opportunities throughout South Sudan. UNMAS has been instrumental in unlocking economic potential by clearing areas contaminated with mines, which are vital for commerce and transport. By removing these mines, infrastructure development, such as roads and marketplaces, has been facilitated, generating employment and revitalizing local economies. Additionally, UNMAS invests in the skills and livelihoods of South Sudanese by providing training and direct employment to local deminers, both men and women. This not only offers sustainable livelihood opportunities for individuals and their families, but also strengthens national technical capacity, supporting a more secure and prosperous future for South Sudan.
Facilitating Safe Human Settlement and Infrastructure Development 
Landmine contamination has been an obstacle to the resettlement of displaced people and the development of essential infrastructure. Over the last 20 years, UNMAS and other Mine Action partners, both national and international, have contributed to safe resettlement efforts by releasing 1,300 square kilometres of land, assessing and clearing 4,000km of roads, allowing communities to rebuild homes, establish healthcare centers, and construct roads. Mine action has fostered resilience and long-term stability in South Sudan’s urban and rural areas by ensuring safe passage and access to essential services.
Advancing Peace and Stability through SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions)
In South Sudan, mine action supports SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions by clearing explosive hazards that threaten lives, hinder development, and obstruct peacebuilding. Demining has enabled displaced families to return home, resume farming, and restore livelihoods, while road clearance has improved access to humanitarian aid and trade routes. Explosive Ordnance Risk Education (EORE) equips communities with life-saving knowledge, especially children and pastoralists. Working with national and international partners, the National Mine Action Authority (NMAA) strengthens governance and ensures local ownership of mine action efforts, reinforcing South Sudan’s commitment to the Ottawa Treaty. Clearance of roads and infrastructure has expanded economic opportunities and mobility, contributing to long-term stability. By eliminating the remnants of war, mine action lays the foundation for peace, security, and sustainable development in South Sudan.Mine action in South Sudan is more than just removing explosive ordnance. It is about restoring dignity, creating opportunities, and paving the way for sustainable development.  What is more, mine action not only saved countless lives, but it also enabled humanitarians to reach people in need, peacekeepers to operate safely, and communities to rebuild their lives with confidence.UNMAS directly contributes to multiple SDGs, making it an essential component of post-conflict recovery and long-term prosperity. As we observe International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action, it is crucial to continue supporting and investing in mine clearance efforts to ensure Safe Futures Start Here, where all South Sudanese can live, learn, and thrive without fear.
By clearing the remnants of war, we are not just saving lives, we are building the foundations for lasting peace and a safer future for South Sudan. 

“The past is already the past. We need to open a new chapter” says Lunia, a Youth Peace Ambassador in Malakal, South Sudan. "During the war, I lost family members. But for me, I know that it has happened, and it is already gone."  For a generation that has experienced so much conflict, the challenge is not just survival but reconciliation—a collective effort to reshape the future of the world’s youngest nation. Peace in South Sudan has always been fragile, marked by cycles of violence and eroded trust. From the eruption of civil war in 2013 to the revitalized peace agreement in 2018, each step toward stability has been hard-fought. Today, the main obstacles to sustainable peace have become more localized with sporadic cattle raiding and gang violence among youth groups. 
  “The past is already the past. We need to open a new chapter” says Lunia, a Youth Peace Ambassador in Malakal, South Sudan. "During the war, I lost family members. But for me, I know that it has happened, and it is already gone."  For a generation that has experienced so much conflict, the challenge is not just survival but reconciliation—a collective effort to reshape the future of the world’s youngest nation. Peace in South Sudan has always been fragile, marked by cycles of violence and eroded trust. From the eruption of civil war in 2013 to the revitalized peace agreement in 2018, each step toward stability has been hard-fought. Today, the main obstacles to sustainable peace have become more localized with sporadic cattle raiding and gang violence among youth groups. 
  "If I had a job, I wouldn’t be in a gang," says Akol*, a 22-year-old who has been part of a local gang since he was 17. "We have no jobs, no money, no support to go to school," he explains. His journey began after dropping out of school due to lack of opportunities, a common story for many young men in South Sudan. "If you don’t have backup, people will take everything from you," he says.The gangs in Malakal, according to Akol, are comprised of different ethnicities, united not by ethnicity but by the shared struggles of poverty and displacement. "We don’t fight because of tribes. We fight to survive."
For many young people, gang life is both a symptom and a cause of South Sudan’s instability. Yet, it is also among the youth where hope for a peaceful future lies. Youth leaders like Lunia work tirelessly to bridge divides, fostering understanding in communities still scarred by ethnic violence. 
The burden of rebuilding extends beyond the youth. Women like Nyawar Monykuany, a women representative for 13 counties in Upper Nile State, are stepping into leadership roles to mend fractured communities. “Women can be peace ambassadors,” she says, describing her work uniting Malakal’s multiple tribes. Fluent in multiple local languages, she uses dialogue to foster trust among groups that once viewed each other with suspicion and hostility.
This push for unity comes after a long journey of insecurity. In the community of Yei, Reverend Levi, Bishop of The Episcopal Church of South Sudan’s (ECSS) Diocese of Yei, recalls the mistrust that once defined relations between civilians and the military. “Civilians looked at soldiers as enemies, and soldiers saw civilians as rebel collaborators,” he explains. Through a series of community dialogues initiated by the church, these groups now sit at the same table, sharing grievances and building trust.” "We achieve peace through dialogue," says Customary Judge Joseph Brown in Yei. For years, Judge Joseph has been at the forefront of resolving disputes in a region marked by conflict and displacement. His court has been instrumental in fostering reconciliation between civilians and the military, as well as reviewing customary laws, traditional rules and norms enforced by local community leaders. "Through dialogue and reconciliation, even those who were enemies are now sitting together, eating together. That is the power of peace,” he says.
Economic recovery is another critical piece of the puzzle. Joel John, a builder in Yei, credits vocational training programs with giving him a chance to provide for his family after years of displacement in Uganda. “I chose this work because I can use it to rebuild my life,” he says. But like many others, he worries that insecurity in rural areas could undermine the progress made in towns.
  The revitalized peace agreement of 2018 marked an important milestone; however, challenges persist in addressing the grassroots dynamics of violence. Ethnic divisions, land disputes, and resource scarcity continue to spark conflict, particularly in areas where floods and displacement exacerbate tensions. Organizations like the International Organization for Migration (IOM) have played a role in facilitating dialogues between local stakeholders, fostering support to local judiciary courts and grassroots initiatives to promote peace across the country. Yet, as communities like Malakal and Yei demonstrate, peace in South Sudan is evolving through the incremental, determined efforts of its people. Amid these hard-won efforts lies a glimpse of South Sudan's potential—a nation striving to mend deep wounds, where fragile truces flicker with hope but are tested by lingering distrust, and where the path to sustainable peace remains steep and uncertain. These stories reveal not just progress, but the immense work still required to transform fleeting reconciliation into lasting unity.
As Lunia puts it: “This is our time. We need to build up this place so we can move forward, like other countries. But first, we have to accept ourselves—and each other.”
*Names have been changed to protect their identity.