On the border between South Sudan and Ethiopia, a devastating humanitarian crisis has emerged from the shadows. Until now largely unknown to the public, the critical situation in Akobo (Jonglei) and Tiergol (Ethiopia) was revealed by the viral spread of photographs showing infants in a state of extreme malnutrition.

Shock through images

Published by local journalists, these photos of emaciated babies have sparked outrage on social media. Sam Koang Malual, director of the local radio station Akobo FM and author of some of the photos, describes a brutal reality:

1. Food shortage: The majority of families are no longer able to provide even one meal a day.
2. Mortality on the rise: Deaths linked to hunger, lack of care and waterborne diseases (diarrhea) are increasing.
3. Isolation: The affected areas are neglected, far from decision-making centers.

114,000 refugees in a "death corridor"

The city of Tiergol, on the Ethiopian side, is currently hosting approximately 114,000 South Sudanese who have fled the fighting. Christophe Garnier, head of mission for Doctors Without Borders (MSF), warns of a potentially explosive health crisis:

"This is an extremely vulnerable population, composed mainly of women and children. They drink river water and have no latrines. We fear a cholera epidemic in addition to the nutritional emergency."

In addition to food and care, the needs for shelter and protection are considered immediate.

Logistical and political obstacles

Despite the organization of relief efforts by MSF and other agencies, two major factors are hindering humanitarian aid:

1. Climate: The start of the rainy season makes the roads impassable and complicates logistics.
2. Insecurity: The conflict between the forces of President Salva Kiir and those of the opposition linked to Riek Machar continues to ravage northern Jonglei.

The key figure: According to the UN, the clashes since January have already displaced more than 304,000 people in the region, placing part of the population under the direct threat of widespread famine.