26 October 2013 - The humanitarian community and South Sudanese government had reached almost 100,000 of 156,000 people identified as flood-affected since August, a top UN official said in a statement today.

“The response will continue as new areas are accessed with partners overcoming massive challenges,’ said Acting Humanitarian Coordinator in South Sudan Chris Nikoi. “Food, household materials, water and sanitation and medical assistance are being transported by any available means.”

Mr. Nokoi noted that 60 per cent of roads across the country had become impassible, with many flooded areas only accessible by air, making humanitarian response expensive.

Humanitarians appreciated government leadership and proactive efforts in responding to needs of flood-affected people across the country, including establishment of a flood response fund and task force at national level, he said.

“This commitment will help complement efforts to ease the suffering of flood-affected people,” Mr. Nikoi said.