National Ministry of Health Launches Distribution of Medicines to Seven States in South Sudan

Tuesday, October 10, 2023 - The National Minister for Health, Hon. Yolanda Awel Deng, addressed the media at the Health Pooled Fund Stores in Juba.

In an effort to improve healthcare access and meet the needs of citizens, the National Ministry of Health has commenced the distribution and transportation of various medicines to seven states within the Greater Equatoria and Greater Bahr el Gazal regions of South Sudan. This initiative is supported by the Health Pooled Fund, while the Upper Nile Region and the two administrative areas will receive supplies through UNICEF.

The National Minister for Health, Hon. Yolanda Awel Deng, addressed the media at the Health Pooled Fund Stores in Juba, emphasizing the importance of appropriate and responsible use of the drugs by health workers. Minister Yolanda encouraged the healthcare professionals to ensure that the medicines are utilized in accordance with their intended purpose, thereby effectively meeting the healthcare needs of the citizens.

The Supply Chain Director of the Health Pooled Fund, Mr. Mike Thaw, expressed his gratitude on behalf of the organization and highlighted the significant impact this initiative will have on healthcare facilities in the seven states. The drugs will be distributed to 512 health facilities, ensuring that a substantial number of citizens have access to the medicines they require. Mr. Thaw also announced that the next phase of new medicines for South Sudan will be supplied in February, providing a continued commitment to improving healthcare services.

To ensure the efficient use of resources, the distributed drugs are expected to cover a four-month period before the commissioning of another consignment. This approach allows for adequate time to monitor the utilization and effectiveness of the medicines while providing a consistent supply to healthcare facilities in the targeted regions.

The National Ministry of Health's initiative to distribute medicines to the seven states within the Greater Equatoria and Greater Bahr el Gazal regions is a significant step towards improving healthcare access in South Sudan. With the support of the Health Pooled Fund and UNICEF, this endeavor aims to address the healthcare needs of the citizens and enhance the overall well-being of the population. By encouraging responsible use of the medicines and providing regular supplies, the ministry is working to ensure that healthcare facilities have the necessary resources to deliver quality care to those in need.

As South Sudan continues to prioritize the improvement of its healthcare system, initiatives such as these play a vital role in creating a healthier and more prosperous future for its citizens.