By Aguok Chok
The national Ministry of Health has inaugurated a new Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) in Wau, Western Bahr el Ghazal State. This center will enhance regional coordination and preparedness for public health emergencies.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony on Thursday, Dr. Annin Ngot Ngot, Undersecretary of the National Ministry of Health, emphasized on the significance of this initiative.
“The PHEOC is a proactive step to protect communities from health threats and enable responses to outbreaks and disasters,” he stated.
Also, he acknowledged the contributions of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for making this project a reality.
Dr. Kediende Chong Mapuor, Director General of Preventive Health Services and Emergency Response, underscored the necessity of cooperation for the centre’s effectiveness.
“Collaboration among stakeholders is crucial for the success of this centre,” he said.
This new facility will serve as a hub for surveillance, response coordination, and emergency preparedness.
The establishment of the PHEOC in Wau marks a critical step in enhancing South Sudan’s capability to manage health crises effectively.
The facility is expected to serve as a vital resource Centre in monitoring disease outbreaks, conducting rapid assessments, and ensuring swift response measures to mitigate the impact of public health emergencies.
South Sudan health sector has faced myriads of challenges over the years, including inadequate skilled health workers, low medical supplies and funding challenges.
Last year (2024), communities in Wau expressed concern over the lack of medical supplies at Ngo-Baggari and Ngo-Dakala health facilities. The residents stated that the facilities were paralyzed following the pulling out of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
They said that the facilities also lacked doctors and were being supervised by guards, putting the lives of pregnant women at risk.
One of the residents, Biajo Batista Uku, emphasized that there was a need for the State Ministry of Health to render services in the area.
“There are no drugs at Ngo-Dakala and people are saying the Red Cross contract has ended. Only watchmen are at the medical facilities, no doctors, nurses or midwives,” said Uku.