Effects Of Famine

Famine is a significant detriment to optimal health and continues to affect millions of people around the world. According to the World Health Organization, famine-induced starvation can lead to a weakened immune system since it requires nutrients from balanced diet. As a result, there is a heightened susceptibility to opportunistic diseases, which can cause mass casualties. Famine also has implications for population dynamics as rates of displacement and social collapse increase as fewer people have access to critical nutrients. At present, South Sudan is suffering from famine that has affected over 100 000 people, with nearly six million more at risk. The seriousness of this event is best characterized by an official United Nations declaration

For example, the CBC reports of ongoing restrictions to food in place at government strongholds and rebel territories. Food transport systems have been blocked from reaching areas that are not approved by government officials while systematic looting of grocery stores, markets, and homes is continuing without resolve. South Sudan’s climate has been conducive to agriculture as rainfall amounts have been ideal for the growing season, therefore reducing the likelihood of famine caused by natural changes. In addition, both sides of the conflict are known to attack civilians more often than military personnel. The Washington Post describes a conscious approach to raiding cattle populations across the country, with government forces increasing their strikes on agricultural regions of the country. The result of destroying local grain resources has shown a marked increase in food prices to levels characterized as hyperinflation. Humanitarian agencies believe they could have prevented the famine if they were allowed unfettered access to civilian populations, however political decisions from government and rebel leaders have denied their entry. A former resident of South Sudan observed this stalemate as he fled the country. The father of four expressed his frustration with the lack of humanitarian assistance, resorting to his prayers “if the government doesn’t approve of people coming in to help.” The conflict for South Sudan’s independence from Sudan ended in 2011, after a referendum approved of a separate South Sudanese state. It’s bloody history leading up to the referendum provides ample evidence of how conflict can cause famine. For instance, President Omar al-Bashir of Sudan was regularly criticized for destroying food production resources in South Sudanese regions, which caused localized famines that contributed to the two million lives lost during the