Disasters
04/09 • SUDAN & AFGHANISTAN
This past week, two devastating natural disasters struck some of the world’s most fragile places.
25/09 • SOUTH SUDAN
South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, is once again facing the threat of widespread conflict.
Anglican Missions
Sep 25, 2025
South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, is once again facing the threat of widespread conflict.
On 4 August 2025, South Sudan’s First Vice President Riek Machar was formally charged with treason, murder, and crimes against humanity in connection with escalating militia attacks across several states. He has been placed under house arrest, which is a move that raises serious questions about political stability and due process, especially as Machar is a key signatory to the peace deal that ended the last civil war.
Fighting between government forces (SSPDF), SPLA-IO loyalists, and community militias has intensified in states like Jonglei, Upper Nile, and Western Equatoria, leading to renewed displacement and widespread fear among civilians. In Leer County alone, reports of attacks on civilians, looting, and sexual violence have surged — reminiscent of atrocities from the earlier civil war.
More than 9 million people ( over two-thirds of the population) now require humanitarian aid. Nearly 2 million people are internally displaced, and an additional 2.3 million South Sudanese are refugees in neighbouring countries like Uganda, Sudan, and Ethiopia.
Climate change and conflict continue to compound the suffering. Heavy rains have triggered widespread flooding, especially in Unity and Jonglei States, damaging crops and cutting off entire communities from aid. Food insecurity is rising rapidly, with over 7.1 million people face crisis or worse levels of hunger.
Meanwhile, humanitarian access is deteriorating. Aid workers have faced increased threats, including harassment, arrests, and violence. In April 2025, Médecins Sans Frontières suspended operations in Leer County following a targeted attack on its facilities.
The transitional government was meant to lead to democratic elections. But the repeatedly postponed 2024 elections are now slated for December 2026, and there is growing concern that they may not be free or fair.
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has urged all parties to uphold the peace agreement and called for a fully inclusive electoral process. But with Machar under house arrest and fighting spreading, many fear that the country is sliding back toward open conflict.
PRAYER POINTS:
- We pray for peace, justice, and protection for all South Sudanese, especially those displaced or living in areas affected by new violence.
- We pray for political leaders to choose dialogue over conflict, and for international actors to support genuine peace and accountability efforts.
- We pray for humanitarian access to be restored and expanded, so that food, healthcare, and shelter can reach those in greatest need.
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