Concerns Rise Over USAID Cuts: Impact on South Sudan’s Children

Dr. Jack Hickel of the Alaska Health Project South Sudan warns of dire consequences from U.S. funding cuts to USAID programs, risking famine and health crises for vulnerable populations. The nonprofit, which has helped over 100,000 people since 2008, seeks local support and advocates for funding restoration to continue its critical work in the region.

Dr. Jack Hickel, the board president of the Alaska Health Project South Sudan, has expressed deep concern regarding the potential impact of the U.S. government’s reduction of USAID programs in South Sudan. This Alaska-based nonprofit is dedicated to enhancing food security and access to clean drinking water in one of the world’s poorest nations, where basic infrastructure is severely lacking. He stated, “Even today, it hasn’t changed much. There’s no roads, there’s no electricity, no sanitation, no running water.”

Since its inception in 2008, the Alaska Health Project South Sudan has contributed significantly to the community, drilling over 107 wells and assisting approximately 100,000 people with food security initiatives. While the organization mainly relies on local Alaskan funding, it also depends on partnerships with groups that receive USAID support.

The Trump administration’s move to reduce funding for the USAID has resulted in substantial job losses, with over 1,600 employees informed of layoffs. Hickel articulated concerns that diminished funding would hinder their ability to continue drilling wells and responding to the needs of a region heavily impacted by the ongoing war in neighboring Sudan, where more than a million refugees have been forced back into South Sudan.

Hickel warned of catastrophic outcomes due to funding cuts affecting vital supplies such as food and medicine, which could result in famine and increased mortality. He emphasized, “All the vaccines that we give kids — that save lives, that save kids — those vaccines are going to stop.”

In response, Hickel encourages Alaskans to engage with their elected representatives to advocate for the restoration of USAID funding. He believes that raising awareness about the current situation is essential for mobilizing necessary resources. The Alaska Health Project South Sudan is also seeking donations to further its mission and extend aid to more individuals in need.

In summary, Dr. Jack Hickel from the Alaska Health Project South Sudan highlights urgent concerns regarding U.S. government funding cuts to USAID programs, particularly their ramifications for vulnerable populations in South Sudan. The nonprofit’s efforts in providing essential services remain crucial amidst increasing needs exacerbated by regional instability. Hickel calls upon Alaskans to advocate for the restoration of government support and continues to seek donations to expand their humanitarian efforts.

Original Source: www.alaskasnewssource.com