South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has pledged his full support to rectify the challenges facing the South Sudan health sector.

He made the remarks on Thursday following a comprehensive briefing by Health Minister Yolanda Awel Deng, outlining the critical issues confronting the nation.

Deng highlighted several pressing health crises, including the outbreaks of diseases such as measles, cholera, and yellow fever in various parts. She stressed the urgency of implementing proactive measures to safeguard the health of all citizens.

“We have pockets of outbreaks in the country; there is an ongoing measles, cholera outbreak, yellow fever outbreaks and so forth. So, I have briefed his Excellency the President in that regard,” she stated.

President Kiir underscored the importance of concerted efforts to prevent the spread of diseases through heightened public awareness campaigns and the education focusing on hygiene and vaccination.

Deng also informed the President about the upcoming groundbreaking ceremony for the second phase of the Juba Teaching Hospital building, a significant step towards enhancing the healthcare infrastructure in the capital.

President Kiir reassured the nation of his commitment to addressing the healthcare challenges. He called upon all the stakeholders to collaborate to achieve a healthier and safer nation.

Access and use of health services remain limited in South Sudan. It is estimated that only 44% of the population in South Sudan live within reach of health facilities and have consistent access to primary care services. Since 2012, various donor funding mechanisms have financed primary health care services in the country.