JUBA, Dec. 6 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations migration agency said Friday it's ramping up humanitarian response to communities in South Sudan affected by heavy flooding which has caused extreme destruction and ongoing displacement.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) said in a statement issued in Juba that nearly one million people have been drastically affected by flash floods following unprecedented rainfall in South Sudan.
"IOM stands with the Government of South Sudan and its people during these trying times. We have rolled up our sleeves and we will continue to do everything we can to help alleviate the misery caused by these floods," said IOM South Sudan Chief of Mission, Jean-Philippe Chauzy.
Thousands have been displaced from their homes and seen their livelihoods destroyed; many towns are completely submerged.
IOM said humanitarian response will be provided to the affected communities in counties declared to be in a "state of emergency" by the Government of South Sudan.
"The level of destruction caused by the floods is unfathomable. People have nowhere to sleep, children are sick, there is no food to eat," said Chauzy.
He said many people in affected areas are unable to access health care facilities, nutrition centers and other basic services.
According to IOM, while impassible roads and waterlogged airstrips have put some interventions on hold, IOM has made significant progress to provide lifesaving assistance.
Through the Rapid Response Fund, an additional 140,000 people have received water treatment and emergency items, as well as emergency mobile health services, from local organizations supported by IOM.
The UN agency said even when the rains stop, the need for continued assistance will remain, noting that inevitable outbreaks of waterborne diseases, destruction of homes and lost livelihoods will require sustained support so that families can live in dignity as they rebuild.
"We cannot forget that in crises, vulnerable populations, especially women and children, are more likely to face gender-based-violence and other kinds of abuse," said Chauzy.
"Protection and safeguarding are at the cornerstone of all of our activities and it is important that as we provide immediate emergency relief we also tackle protection issues," he added.
