South Sudan and the United States strengthen health cooperation and sign a memorandum of understanding to combat epidemics.

Written by: Mohamed Ragab

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of South Sudan, Ambassador Dr. James Pittia Morgan, received the United States Ambassador to South Sudan, Michael J. Adler, in the capital Juba, in a meeting that discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations and joint cooperation between the two countries in a number of areas of common interest.

These talks come within the framework of growing relations between Juba and Washington, which include areas of development, health, humanitarian support and institutional capacity building.

Health cooperation tops the agenda of the talks

During the meeting, both sides focused on health developments in South Sudan, particularly efforts to enhance preparedness for epidemic diseases, especially the Ebola virus.

The US ambassador affirmed his country’s continued support for the health sector in South Sudan, noting Washington’s commitment to continuing cooperation with the Ministry of Health and national health institutions in order to strengthen health emergency response capabilities and improve medical services.

The two sides also discussed ways to expand technical support and health cooperation programs in order to enhance the readiness of health institutions to face future challenges.

Signing a memorandum of understanding to support the health sector

During the visit, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Oromo Francis, signed a memorandum of understanding in the health sector, aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two sides in the areas of public health, epidemic control and the development of health services.

The agreement is expected to contribute to supporting training and capacity-building programs, strengthening epidemiological surveillance systems, and improving the efficiency of emergency response, which will positively impact the health sector in the country.

This move comes at a time when the government of South Sudan is seeking to develop its health infrastructure and improve the level of services provided to citizens.

Juba confirms the country is free of Ebola

Foreign Minister Dr. James Morgan confirmed that South Sudan has not recorded any cases of Ebola, stressing the government's continued efforts to strengthen health surveillance systems and early preparedness.

He explained that the health authorities are continuing to implement precautionary measures and monitor the health situation in the region, in order to prevent the disease from spreading into the country.

He also noted that the recent US travel warning does not reflect the actual health situation in South Sudan, stressing that the country remains free of any virus infections.

Ongoing partnership between Juba and Washington

This visit reflects the continued cooperation between South Sudan and the United States in development and humanitarian fields, especially in the health sector, which is a priority for both sides.

Observers believe that the signing of the new memorandum of understanding represents an important step towards strengthening the capabilities of the health system in South Sudan, and supporting national efforts to confront health challenges and epidemics.

These developments also underscore the importance of international cooperation in supporting health systems and enhancing preparedness to face health risks in the region.