Madhol Hospital has opened in South Sudan, funded by the UAE, to enhance healthcare access for locals and refugees amid ongoing conflict. Officials emphasize the facility’s importance in relieving pressure on existing health services, addressing health challenges in the region, and reaffirming international collaboration to improve health outcomes.
In South Sudan, the opening of Madhol Hospital marks a vital investment in health infrastructure. Chief Amet Mabior Yel, a 72-year-old traditional leader, expressed his joy at having a medical facility built nearby, alleviating years of hardship in accessing healthcare. Madhol Hospital will serve as the primary referral hospital for Northern Bahr el Ghazal and its surrounding areas, providing essential services to the local population and those affected by the ongoing Sudan conflict.
Constructed with funding from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Madhol Hospital aims to improve healthcare access for a region burdened by health challenges and the influx of refugees. Governor Simon Ober Mawut emphasized the hospital’s strategic importance, stating its timely construction will decrease pressure on existing healthcare resources within the state, which currently hosts a significant number of returnees and internally displaced persons (IDPs).
UAE’s State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shreikh Shakhbout Nahyan Al Nahyan, reiterated the UAE’s commitment to collaborating with South Sudan in enhancing healthcare services. His remarks highlighted the necessity of establishing facilities that meet international health standards, promoting a positive impact on the lives of many.
Dr. Karamagi from WHO acknowledged the inauguration of Madhol Hospital as a significant advancement in South Sudan’s healthcare system. He noted the successful partnership between South Sudan and the UAE, emphasizing its role in addressing local health needs as well as those of refugees. WHO pledges to continue improving health outcomes through support for infrastructure and health emergency responses.
Since April 2023, the conflict in Sudan has driven many to seek refuge in South Sudan, adding strain to an already strained healthcare system. Regions including Northern Bahr el Ghazal have become keystones for displaced individuals, which has intensified health challenges. Collaborative efforts among WHO, health authorities, and partners aim to enhance healthcare delivery, improve disease surveillance, and ensure medical supplies reach those in need.
The establishment of Madhol Hospital represents a crucial advancement in South Sudan’s healthcare landscape, providing essential services to a population burdened by conflict and poor health infrastructure. Supported by the UAE, the new facility will alleviate the overwhelming pressure on existing health systems while improving access to care for both locals and a large influx of refugees. Continued collaboration among international partners is vital for addressing ongoing health challenges in the region.
Original Source: www.afro.who.int
