By Baraka John
His Majesty King Atoroba Rikito Peni Gbudue of the Azande Kingdom has launched a free hepatitis testing campaign in Yambio County in a renewed effort to fight the growing health threat posed by the disease.
The campaign was officially launched on Friday, July 4, 2025, at the royal palace in Yambio, marking the King’s return from a three-month visit to Juba focused on building partnerships. The initiative aims to raise awareness, promote early testing, and encourage prevention of hepatitis infections, particularly hepatitis B and C, which continue to claim lives silently across the region.
During the event, King Atoroba voiced grave concern over the rising number of young people dying from hepatitis, which he described as more dangerous than HIV/AIDS.
“AIDS is better than hepatitis,” the King said. “People living with HIV can survive for more than 20 years, but hepatitis silently destroys internal organs. We have lost many young people already.”
He urged the people of the Azande Kingdom to get tested and know their hepatitis status, emphasizing that early detection can save lives. The King also appealed to government authorities, health partners, and religious institutions to support the campaign, particularly in expanding access to vaccines and treatment.
Health officials praised the King’s initiative, calling it a crucial step toward improving public health in Western Equatoria. Rose, the Director General at the state Ministry of Health, applauded the Azande Kingdom for taking a leading role.
“Congratulations to the Azande Kingdom. This is just the beginning,” she said. “The health ministry, both at state and national level, cannot address these issues alone. We need every stakeholder involved. Without good health, the country cannot move forward.”
Hepatitis remains a significant health concern in South Sudan, where limited access to screening and treatment has contributed to rising mortality. The Azande Kingdom’s campaign is seen as a powerful call to action, breaking the stigma and promoting a culture of regular health checks across the community.