A Healthier Future for South Sudan's Families

Fighting Malnutrition in South Sudan

South Sudan is facing a severe and prolonged humanitarian crisis, driven by a combination of ongoing conflict, widespread flooding, soaring food prices and limited access to healthcare. These overlapping challenges have left an estimated 7.7 million people—more than half the country’s population—at risk of not having enough to eat. Families across the country are struggling to meet their most basic needs, with young children especially vulnerable to malnutrition. In the face of these challenges, International Medical Corps is working to deliver lifesaving care and equip caregivers with the knowledge and tools they need to protect their families.

A cornerstone of this effort is the training and support of Community Nutrition Volunteers (CNVs)—local leaders equipped to identify malnutrition early, refer children for treatment and educate families on how to protect and monitor their children’s health. These volunteers conduct home visits, lead kitchen gardening and cooking demonstrations, and serve as trusted advocates for health and nutrition in their communities. Their impact is visible in places like Malakal and Assossa, where children are recovering, growing stronger and returning to play.

Though the number of active CNVs has recently been reduced, the knowledge and skills they’ve gained continue to benefit their communities. As a direct result of our “relief to self reliance” approach, many former volunteers continue to serve as informal sources of guidance and support for the people around them, helping build resilience in the face of ongoing hardship. This is how training saves lives. Their work underscores the importance of investing in local solutions, and highlights the strength and dedication of the people leading them.