Authorities in Eastern Equatoria State have confirmed that over 18,000 people have been left homeless after floods submerged large areas of Lafon County.
In an interview with Radio Emmanuel on Thursday, Augustine Okuma, the Eastern Equatoria State Chairperson for the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission, reported that at least 18,178 people have been affected by the floods in Lafon County. The floods have destroyed health facilities, schools, roads, and farmlands.
“Lafon has experienced heavy rainfall, especially in August, leading to severe flooding. A total of 18,178 individuals, equivalent to 2,863 households, have been affected. Health facilities and schools, including Birehulo, Yandita, Pajigi, Lona, and Injebe primary schools, have been severely impacted. Roads have been cut off, making it difficult for people to access aid,” Okuma said.
Okuma called on the state government and humanitarian partners to come to the aid of the flood-affected people in Lafon. He acknowledged that some partners have provided limited support but emphasized that it is not enough.
“We have developed a comprehensive preparedness and response document, which has been approved by the Council of Ministers. We are now mobilizing both government and partners to provide quick assistance. This is a collective responsibility, not just for the government of Eastern Equatoria State, but also for the communities who must help themselves,” he added.
Okuma also advised communities living in lowland areas to relocate to higher ground to avoid further devastation. He stressed the need to construct water channels to mitigate future flooding.
“Flooding this year is unprecedented and must be taken seriously. Communities in flood-prone areas should relocate to safer ground before the situation worsens. We all must work together to open water channels and prepare for more heavy rains,” he concluded.
