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LACK OF HEALTH FACILITIES IN AKOBO COUNTY AFFECTING COMMUNITIES

AKOBO COUNTY - South Sudan: Persistent shortage of functional health facililties in Akobo County of Jonglei State is putting thousands of lives at risk, especially women, children, and the elderly. 

Community leaders and local health workers report that many villages have no access to clinics or trained medical personnel, forcing people to walk long distances sometimes for several hours to reach the nearest health center. For many, the journey becomes impossible during the rainy season when roads and footpaths are flooded.

Mothers seeking antenatal care and emergency delivery services are among the worst affected. According to residents, some women deliver at home without skilled assistance, increasing the risk of complications and maternal deaths. Parents also say the situation has contributed to rising cases of preventable diseases among children, including malaria, pneumonia, and diarrhea.

Hon. Jamss Kueth Makuach commissioner of Akobo county acknowledge the challenge and appealed for urgent intervention from the national government and humanitarian agencies. Saying investment in new primary health care units, medical supplies, and trained staff is critical to improving health outcomes across the county.

“ I did a need assessment, where I went to all the grounds of Akobo South and also Akobo East. Talking of Akobo South, they have a limited access of health services. And the health services are not of standard, so they have a lot of challenges, whereby it take the patients from far distance in search of healthcare,” James Kueth said.

 The commissioner is however calling for swift action, emphasizing that access to healthcare is a basic right. He warn that without adequate facilities, the health and well-being of the population will continue to deteriorate.

“ Let me take this moment to thank Save the Children who have done a very good work in Akobo county however I appeal to other partners to come and support them to provide health services to people of Akobo as you know, the government of South Sudan is not in a good position to provide good service” added James Kueth.

The people of Akobo hope that their voices will lead to tangible improvements and renewed support for a stronger healthcare system.