South Sudan is a country often plagued by emergencies such as conflict, natural disasters, and epidemics, relies heavily on the swift response of humanitarian agencies. However, due to logistical challenges, it may take days, weeks, or even months for assistance to reach affected areas. This highlights the need for a contingency plan based on the available in-country capacity to manage the initial phase of an emergency. This plan is called the 'Contingency or Preparedness Plan' and serves as a beacon of hope for the affected population.

The Shelter and Non-Food Item Cluster (SNFI) in South Sudan has created a comprehensive Response Preparedness Plan package based on the scenarios. This package provides practical guidance to the country cluster coordination team and SNFI humanitarian partners, equipping them to respond effectively to potential emergencies (both slow and sudden onset) with appropriate humanitarian assistance with the centrality of protection. During emergencies, the cluster coordination team ensures that the response preparedness efforts of partners are inclusive and coordinated. The contingency response plan, a key component of the package, outlines the initial response strategy and operational plan for the first three to four weeks of an emergency, setting the stage for a Flash Appeal if necessary. The following sections delve into the Cluster's response regarding activities, capacity, coordination mechanisms, and risks and constraints.

It is important to base emergency response preparedness on knowledge of national and local authorities' planning, capacities, and systems. This should be complemented with a deep understanding of the underlying inequalities and vulnerabilities influencing risk susceptibility and resilience of women, men, and their communities in a given context (Accountability to the Affected Population). This understanding, guided by the principles of neutrality and impartiality, enlightens and makes us aware of the complex dynamics at play in emergency response.