Enhancing Healthcare Delivery in South Sudan: The Inception of Madhol Hospital
The opening of Madhol Hospital in South Sudan, funded by the UAE, aims to strengthen healthcare services amidst ongoing challenges. Local leaders and officials emphasize its importance for the community, especially with an influx of refugees from Sudan. The initiative highlights international collaboration to address pressing health issues and improves access to essential health services.
In South Sudan, Chief Amet Mabior Yel expressed his joy during the opening of Madhol Hospital, located in Madhol Payam, Aweil East County. The event attracted senior officials, UN representatives, donors, and community members. At 72 years old, Mr. Yel celebrated the completion of a local hospital, stating, “Now, at the age of seventy, a hospital has finally been built right at our doorstep. It’s truly a blessing.”
The healthcare system in South Sudan is under pressure due to limited facilities and ongoing diseases, compounded by the conflict in Sudan, impacting the northern states. Madhol Hospital is set to become the primary referral facility for Northern Bahr el Ghazal and surrounding areas, providing essential health services to a marginalized population.
With funding from the United Arab Emirates, Madhol Hospital aims to improve healthcare access for those in need. Governor Simon Ober Mawut emphasized the significance of the hospital, noting the influx of refugees and returnees from Sudan. He stated, “This hospital will reduce pressure from the only referral hospital that we have.”
Shreikh Shakhbout Nahyan, the UAE State Minister of Foreign Affairs, reiterated his nation’s commitment to working with South Sudan to enhance healthcare services. He expressed, “We surely affirm the UAE commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of millions of people.”
Dr. Karamagi, the WHO representative, highlighted that the opening of Madhol Hospital represents a significant advancement for South Sudan’s health system. He acknowledged the partnership between South Sudan and the UAE as essential for catering to local healthcare needs.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has led to an influx of refugees into South Sudan, straining an already fragile healthcare system. The northern states are receiving many displaced individuals, which has intensified existing health challenges.
WHO and other health authorities are actively collaborating to provide necessary health services to refugees and returnees. Their joint efforts have improved disease surveillance and emergency responsiveness, including the provision of medical supplies and training for healthcare workers on infectious diseases.
Funding from the UAE has also facilitated the distribution of medical supplies to treat individuals and provided resources to combat malnutrition and infectious diseases, bolstering the healthcare framework in South Sudan.
Madhol Hospital’s inauguration signifies a pivotal development for healthcare delivery in South Sudan, particularly for populations affected by conflict. Government officials and UAE representatives highlight collaborative efforts to address pressing health challenges. The ongoing partnerships signify commitment not just to immediate healthcare needs, but to the long-term strengthening of South Sudan’s health infrastructure. Through enhanced facilities and resources, these initiatives aim to alleviate the burdens faced by local communities and displaced individuals.
Original Source: www.afro.who.int
