Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-03-18 08:54:03
South Sudan, a country already facing numerous challenges, is now bracing for a period of extreme heat that is expected to last for two weeks. In response to this impending heatwave, the government has taken the precautionary measure of closing down all schools starting Monday.
The Health and Education ministries in South Sudan have issued a joint statement advising parents to keep their children indoors as temperatures are projected to reach as high as 45 degrees Celsius (113 Fahrenheit). They have also warned that any school found open during this period will risk having its registration withdrawn. While the exact duration of the school closures was not specified, the ministries have assured the public that they will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
Peter Garang, a resident of the capital city, Juba, expressed his support for the decision to close schools during this extreme weather. He suggested that schools should be equipped with electricity to enable the installation of air conditioners, as a measure to provide relief from the scorching temperatures.
South Sudan, as one of the world’s newest nations, is particularly susceptible to the impacts of climate change. Heatwaves are not uncommon in the region, but temperatures rarely exceed 40 degrees Celsius. The country has also been grappling with civil conflict, drought, flooding, and other environmental challenges, all of which have contributed to difficult living conditions for its residents.
In addition to these challenges, South Sudan is also dealing with a dire humanitarian crisis, as highlighted by the World Food Program’s latest country brief. The ongoing violence, economic instability, climate change, and an influx of refugees from neighboring Sudan have exacerbated the situation. In January 2024 alone, over 818,000 vulnerable individuals in South Sudan were provided with food assistance and cash-based transfers to address their immediate needs.
The government’s decision to prioritize the safety and well-being of school children during this period of extreme heat is a commendable step towards mitigating the impact of the weather conditions on the population. By keeping children indoors and closing schools, the authorities are taking proactive measures to safeguard the health and safety of the community.
As South Sudan continues to grapple with various challenges, including climate change, ongoing conflicts, and humanitarian crises, it is essential for the government and relevant stakeholders to work together to address these issues and ensure the well-being of all citizens. Initiatives that focus on sustainable development, climate resilience, and conflict resolution will be crucial in building a more stable and prosperous future for South Sudan.
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