The milestone, hailed as a symbol of hope and resilience, marks a turning point for thousands of children and families across the region

By Emmanuel Mandella

A new chapter in the journey towards delivery of quality healthcare flipped in Nzara County in Western Equatoria State over the weekend as St. Theresa Mission Hospital officially commissioned its state-of-the-art Graham Pediatric Center, the largest of a kind in the state.

The milestone, hailed as a symbol of hope and resilience, marks a turning point for thousands of children and families across the region.

“For years, we dreamt of a facility that could provide comprehensive healthcare for our children. Today, that dream becomes reality. This is not just a building but a beacon of healing and a promise of a healthier, stronger generation to come,” said Dr. Taban Charles, Medical Director of St. Theresa Mission Hospital.

The commissioning ceremony brought together a diverse crowd of government officials, religious leaders, development partners, and community members, all united by one vision of safeguarding the future of South Sudan’s children.

The project was supported by three major partners, including Sudan Relief Fund, Catholic Medical Mission Board (CMMB), and African Medical Health (AMH), the Graham Pediatric Center boasts specialized examination rooms, ICU units, child-friendly waiting areas, and modern diagnostic equipment.

With its completion, children from infancy to adolescence will now access preventive care, treatment for acute and chronic illnesses, therapy services, and a nurturing environment tailored to their unique needs.

“This facility represents a birthplace of hope, it is here that future leaders, teachers, doctors, and entrepreneurs will be nurtured. Let us ensure it remains clean, safe, and accessible for all including those with disabilities,” stated Acting Governor Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa.

Construction of the facility was supported by Mr. Graham, whose name the center bears. His support extended not only to the people of Western Equatoria but also to communities in North Sudan.

Dr. Taban described the gravity of challenges locals faced prior to the esablishment of the hospital.

“I remember an expectant mother who traveled for 130 miles on a motorbike from Nadiangere Payam of Yambio. She arrived at the hospital for attention when her uterus had ruptured after being delayed by a traditional midwife. We saved her, but we lost the baby; a human that would have turned out a big personality in this country in future,” he said.

He continued by recalling how, even before the new facility was complete, the hospital saved countless women from maternal death and protected children from being orphaned.

“The death of a woman while pregnant is a sign of a failing state. We cannot afford that anymore,” he said.

While celebrating this new beginning, leaders also emphasized the urgent need for systemic change in South Sudan’s health and education sectors, citing that, 52% of girls are married before the age of 18, leading to high teenage pregnancies.

Malaria causes 50% of all deaths, preventable through early intervention. And only 40% of births are attended by skilled birth attendants (SBAs). Yet, the country has only 3,000. Female literacy remains below 50%, further limiting women’s health knowledge and empowerment.

“A child cannot raise another child. We must educate our girls and encourage our boys to pursue health professions. The future belongs to those who prepare for it today, as Malcolm X once said,” Dr. Taban explained.

Health Minister of the Azande Kingdom, Dr. Peter Siro, expressed profound gratitude to the Catholic Church, donors, and hospital staff.

“This hospital is a lifeline. It is a sanctuary for healing, built with love and dedication. Let us protect it as we would our own homes. Vandalizing it is not just a crime, but an attack on our children’s future.”

He also urged families to prioritize nutrition, responsible sexual and reproductive health, and to foster community ownership of the facility.

Hospital Administrator Benson Wasilwa Wakoli concluded the ceremony by acknowledging the long journey that led to this day.

“This is a historic moment not just for Nzara, but for every mother, father, and child who will walk through these doors. We believe this center will make a positive and lasting impact for generations.”

Accoeding to Acting Governor, Badagbu, the Graham Pediatric Center is more than an investment in infrastructure, it is an investment in people. It reflects what’s possible when communities rise above hardship and come together for the greater good.

“Together, we are building the future of South Sudan, let this center remind us that unity, vision, and compassion can rewrite the story of this nation one child at a time,” Governor Rimbasa echoed.

The Pediatric Center at St. Theresa Mission Hospital in Nzara is now open and will begin full operations after installation of equipment in the coming days.