By Jenifer James
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) on Monday commended the government’s leadership and emphasized the need for coordinated efforts across sectors to tackle the cholera outbreak, according to Deputy Special Representative Anita Kiki.
“We need to act collectively to prevent further loss of life. Access to clean water and sanitation is essential, and humanitarian partners are working tirelessly to meet these needs,” said Anita.
As the outbreak continues to spread, Minister Awel urged the public to adopt preventive measures. “Handwashing with clean, soapy water, eating freshly cooked food, and avoiding contaminated water sources are critical steps everyone can take to protect themselves,” she advised.
This came after the Ministry of Health on Sunday confirmed six fatalities and 243 suspected cholera cases across the country, highlighting an urgent need for coordinated action to curb the outbreak.
Minister of Health Yolanda Awel announced, “We declared a cholera outbreak on October 28, 2024, starting in Renk, Upper Nile State, which has since expanded to areas such as Juba and Malakal. So far, 27 cases have been confirmed through laboratory testing, with six fatalities, representing a case fatality rate of 2.5%.”
The Minister acknowledged the challenge of combating cholera in South Sudan, particularly in refugee camps and transit centers where access to clean water and sanitation is severely limited.
“Cholera is primarily a disease of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH),” said Dr. Harriet Pasquale, Undersecretary in the Ministry of Health. “In this setting, where people are living in overcrowded refugee camps, it’s critical to engage all sectors to respond effectively.”
The Ministry of Health, supported by humanitarian partners, is scaling up efforts to improve access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene.
Dr. Pasquale emphasized the need for collaboration, “We need all stakeholders, the Ministry of Health, City Councils, environmental bodies, and humanitarian organizations to work together to contain this outbreak.”
Humanitarian organizations are distributing clean water, chlorine tablets, and hygiene supplies such as soap and utensils, Community Engagement. Teams from the Ministry of Health and WHO are conducting awareness campaigns on food safety, proper hygiene, recognizing cholera symptoms, and decongesting the Camps.
Authorities are negotiating with host communities to secure more land, allowing refugees and returnees to move out of overcrowded centers and Nutrition and Shelter. The World Food Programme (WFP) and other partners are supplying nutritious food and tents to improve living conditions.
The Ministry has reiterated its commitment to containing the outbreak but called on international donors and humanitarian agencies for additional resources.
“This is not just a health issue. It’s a humanitarian crisis that requires a united response,” concluded Dr. Pasquale.