Akobo Community Leaders Meet with Minister of Health

16th July, 2024 – Juba, South Sudan; Minister Yolanda Awel, along with the community leaders, examined the broader health challenges facing South Sudan, with a particular focus on the Akobo community.

The South Sudan Minister of Health, Honourable Yolanda Awel Deng Juach, held a meeting with community leaders from Akobo County, Jonglei State, to discuss the challenges facing healthcare facilities in the county. The meeting was attended by a diverse group of stakeholders, including the Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Hon. Pal Mai Deng, the Ministry of Health Undersecretary, Hon. Dr. Harriet Pasquale, the Senior Advisor for the Ministry of Health, Dr. Baba, the Director General of Primary Healthcare, Dr. Atem Nathan, Akobo local chiefs, and representatives from UNICEF.

The meeting, which aligns with the Ministry of Health's framework to provide health services at the community level, brought together key stakeholders to address the pressing health issues in the Akobo region.

During the discussion, Minister Yolanda Awel, along with the community leaders, examined the broader health challenges facing South Sudan, with a particular focus on the Akobo community. The Minister emphasized the need for collective action, stressing the importance of community engagement and health promotion.

"We must work together to find sustainable solutions to the healthcare challenges in Akobo," said Minister Yolanda Awel. "By engaging the community and leveraging their insights, we can develop targeted interventions that address the unique needs of this region."

The County Health Director (CHD) of Akobo County, Mr. Charchot Chaar, expressed his appreciation for the fruitful discussion and the Ministry of Health's leadership. In response, Minister Yolanda acknowledged the challenges faced by the Akobo Hospital, including the need for a reliable power source, and expressed optimism about the positive outcomes of the meeting and the consensus reached by the community.

This engagement with the Akobo community reflects the Ministry of Health's commitment to addressing healthcare challenges at the grassroots level and working collaboratively with local stakeholders to find sustainable solutions. The consensus reached during the meeting is a positive step towards improving the healthcare system in Akobo County and, ultimately, in South Sudan.