CEPO Applauds Government’s Declaration of Floods as National Disaster, Calls for Inclusive Response

Deputy Information and Communication Minister Dr. Jacob Maiju Korok (Radio Tamazuj)

In a significant move towards addressing the devastating impact of floods in South Sudan, the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) has welcomed the decision of the national government cabinet to declare floods as a national disaster. The Executive Director of CEPO, Mr. Edmund Yakani, expressed his appreciation for this development, characterizing it as a positive response to their advocacy and lobbying efforts.

Yakani highlighted the severe repercussions of the floods on affected communities, emphasizing the immense strain it places on their livelihoods, safety, and well-being. He commended the government for heeding their repeated calls to acknowledge the severity of the situation and take decisive action in declaring the floods a national disaster.

Furthermore, CEPO urged the president to prioritize adequate funding for the national floods preparedness and response plan spanning from June to December 2024. Yakani stressed the importance of ensuring an inclusive and comprehensive approach to flood preparedness and response, particularly emphasizing the need to safeguard the rights and needs of persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.

In addition to governmental measures, CEPO called upon the private sector in South Sudan to establish teams dedicated to supporting inclusive floods preparedness and response initiatives. The organization also expressed gratitude towards the media and journalists for their role in raising awareness and providing accurate reporting on the challenges faced by communities affected by the floods.

Acknowledging the contributions made by diplomatic missions towards financing flood response efforts, CEPO underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in mitigating the impact of natural disasters and ensuring the protection and support of those most affected. As South Sudan navigates the complexities of responding to the ongoing floods, the collective efforts of government, civil society, the private sector, and the media play a crucial role in fostering resilience and promoting inclusivity in disaster response.