By Baraka John
The South Sudan Red Cross, in partnership with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), has launched a comprehensive physical rehabilitation campaign across Western Equatoria State to support people with disabilities, particularly those affected by conflict.
Robert Singira, the head of the South Sudan Red Cross in Yambio, stated that the initiative, which began in Mundri, will reach Yambio on June 16 and is expected to serve hundreds of individuals in need of mobility support and medical assistance. The program, led by the ICRC’s Physical Rehabilitation Department in Juba, offers free assessments, repairs, and maintenance for artificial limbs, wheelchairs, crutches, and mobility tricycles. Cases requiring more advanced treatment will be referred to facilities in Juba.
“On Monday 16th, so that the doctors who are coming to Juba will be able to assess them and provide the relevant service to them. So this mobilization on the ground is being done by the South Sudan Red Cross and of course in conjunction with the ministry of social development and all the partners supporting disability in the state”. Singira told King Media on Thursday
Singira described the initiative as a critical mission that embodies the core values of the Red Cross Movement. “While the ICRC provides support in conflict zones, our national society ensures those services reach people directly on the ground,” Singira said.
The outreach campaign will target several key areas across the state, including Mundri, Maridi, Iba, Mankakara, Mogwondo, and Yambio. Based on ongoing needs assessments, Nzara may also be added to the list.
Moses Luiz Magianga, chairperson for persons living with disabilities in Western Equatoria and a member of the State Assembly, praised the Red Cross for its efforts but underscored continued challenges.
“There’s still widespread hunger, and many people need wheelchairs or walking sticks,” Magianga noted. “I helped mobilize persons with disabilities, and the Red Cross authorized us to register individuals along with their needs. For example, if someone needs a basic walking stick, it’s noted next to their name.” said Luiz.
The campaign is being carried out in partnership with the Ministry of Social Development, with key support from organizations such as World Vision, the Commission for Refugee Affairs, and the Commission for Economic Affairs. These partners are assisting in mobilizing affected communities, particularly along the corridor from Mundri to Yambio.
The Red Cross Movement is made up of three main components: the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and national societies like the South Sudan Red Cross. While the ICRC leads humanitarian responses during conflict, national societies play a vital role in delivering daily emergency and community services within their countries.