Health

Empowering South Sudanese Women with Positive Masculinity Training

Published

3 weeks ago

April 19, 2025

Peter James

Empowering South Sudanese Women with Positive Masculinity Training

Empowering Young Women for a More Inclusive Society

The Christian Agents for Peace and Development (CAPaD) recently organized a two-day workshop with a unique focus: training young women from faith-based institutions on the concept of positive masculinity. This initiative is part of a broader effort to foster gender equality and promote healthier relationships among young people.

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Understanding Positive Masculinity

The workshop’s primary objective was to equip young women with the knowledge and tools necessary to understand and promote positive masculinity. Through a series of interactive sessions, discussions, and real-life examples, participants gained a deeper insight into what positive masculinity entails. This concept is critical for peaceful coexistence, community development, and personal well-being, as it challenges traditional gender roles and promotes mutual respect and understanding between men and women.

Addressing Gender Roles and Power Dynamics

A key aspect of the workshop was addressing issues of gender roles, power dynamics, and mutual respect. By exploring these topics, the participants learned how to create a supportive environment where both men and women can work together towards a more inclusive and peaceful society. The workshop provided a platform for young women to express their thoughts, share their experiences, and learn from each other, fostering a sense of community and solidarity.

Fostering Gender Equality and Healthier Relationships

The ultimate goal of the workshop was to empower young women to become agents of change in their communities. By promoting gender equality and healthier relationships, these young women can play a crucial role in breaking down barriers and challenging harmful gender stereotypes. The workshop’s focus on positive masculinity as a means to achieve this goal highlights the importance of engaging both men and women in the pursuit of gender equality and social change.

Conclusion

The CAPaD workshop on positive masculinity serves as a beacon of hope for a more inclusive and peaceful society. By empowering young women with the knowledge and tools to promote positive masculinity, the organization is contributing to a broader movement towards gender equality and social change. As these young women return to their communities, they are equipped to inspire positive change, challenge harmful gender stereotypes, and foster healthier relationships. The impact of this workshop will be felt for years to come, as a new generation of young women emerges as leaders and change-makers in their communities.

Health

MSF coordinator recounts strike at Old Fangak hospital

Published

2 hours ago

May 9, 2025

Peter James

MSF coordinator recounts strike at Old Fangak hospital

MSF Hospital in Old Fangak: A Heartbreaking Attack

The Day of the Attack

David Charo Kahindi, MSF’s Medical Coordinator in South Sudan, was in Old Fangak the day the hospital was bombed. He was part of the team extinguishing the fire and treating and evacuating the wounded patients.

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Helicopters flying overhead
Patients and staff in danger
Bombing lasted for about an hour

Desperate Efforts to Save the Hospital

As soon as the bombing quieted, David rushed to the hospital to find chaos and destruction.

The pharmacy was on fire.

Everyone, including the community, tried to extinguish the flames, fearing a second explosion. The intent was clear—total destruction.

Buckets of water used to put out the fire
Fuel tanks nearby added to the danger
Five hours to fully extinguish the flames

Heartbreaking Discoveries Inside the Hospital

Inside the hospital, David found a scene of devastation.

No patients in the wards
Stabilizing new patients with limited supplies
Evacuating patients to a safer village

Continued Efforts and Support

With thousands fleeing to the same village, the team faced overwhelming challenges.

We pray there are no more wounded, but we continue to hear of bombing in nearby areas.

Urgent request for medical supplies
Support from the United Nations
Keeping a health post running from a single tent

A Lifeline Lost

The hospital in Old Fangak was more than just a building—it was a lifeline for the community.

Today, there is nothing left. Hospitals should never be targets. I utterly condemn this attack.

Cholera kills 4 in one week in Upper Nile’s Akoka. Yau Yau urges the public to embrace elections and beware of false promises.

Health

60,000 children at risk of starvation in Upper Nile due to fighting disrupting aid supply routes: UN

Published

23 hours ago

May 8, 2025

Peter James

60,000 children at risk of starvation in Upper Nile due to fighting disrupting aid supply routes: UN

Children in Upper Nile at Risk of Starvation Amid Violence

Introduction

More than 60,000 malnourished children in Upper Nile state are facing the threat of starvation by the end of May due to violence blocking humanitarian routes and dwindling treatment supplies, according to the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and UNICEF.

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Escalating Crisis

Violence in Upper Nile has led to the death of hundreds and displacement of 125,000 people.
The main humanitarian supply corridor along the White Nile river has been cut off.
Over 300,000 children in Upper Nile are affected by malnutrition.

Impact of Conflict

The ongoing conflict has not only disrupted the supply of essential aid but also heightened the risk of waterborne diseases and increased food insecurity, exacerbating the already dire situation for children in the region.

Urgent Appeal

WFP and UNICEF warn that vital nutrition supplies will run out by the end of May without immediate access and resupply.
Life-saving treatment programs for malnourished children are at risk of halting.
Security concerns have prevented the prepositioning of supplies in insecure areas.

Challenges and Consequences

Looting and Disruption

Almost 2,000 cartons of nutrition supplies have been looted in Upper Nile, depriving thousands of children of essential treatment and recovery.

Unprecedented Measures

WFP and UNICEF have been forced to hold back supplies due to ongoing fighting and looting, risking a catastrophic shortage by the end of May.

Call for Action

Both agencies emphasize the urgent need for safe delivery routes to prevent the devastating consequences of interrupted treatment and potential loss of lives among the most vulnerable children in Upper Nile.

Conclusion

As the crisis in Upper Nile escalates, the lives of thousands of malnourished children hang in the balance. Immediate action is needed to ensure the uninterrupted flow of essential aid to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe in the region.

Health

Ministry of Health gives green light for establishment of inaugural cancer department

Published

2 days ago

May 7, 2025

Peter James

Ministry of Health gives green light for establishment of inaugural cancer department

South Sudan Approves Creation of First Oncology Department

The National Ministry of Health’s Milestone Decision

The National Ministry of Health in South Sudan has made a groundbreaking move by approving the creation of the country’s first oncology department. This decision marks a significant step towards integrating cancer care into the national healthcare system, a crucial development for addressing the growing burden of cancer in the country.

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Key Highlights of the Decision

Acting Minister of Health, James Hoth Mai, approved the initiative during a meeting with the South Sudan Cancer Network (SSCN).
Minister Hoth Mai pledged full support for the establishment of the oncology department and directed technical teams to begin the setup process.
Dr. Albino Amum Awin, Director of Cancer Center Services, emphasized the importance of including cancer treatment in the national health policy.

Addressing the Growing Cancer Burden

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of cancer cases in South Sudan has been on the rise, with an estimated 9,854 cases and 7,539 deaths reported in 2015. By 2025, these numbers are expected to increase to 13,325 cases and 10,233 deaths, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced cancer care services in the country.

Despite the increasing burden of cancer, access to treatment within the public healthcare system has been limited, forcing many patients to seek care abroad. The establishment of the oncology department will bridge this gap and provide much-needed support to cancer patients across South Sudan.

Collaboration and Support for Cancer Care

The South Sudan Cancer Network (SSCN), comprised of 11 specialized oncologists, has been at the forefront of efforts to improve cancer care in the country. The organization works closely with communities, government agencies, NGOs, and international partners to enhance cancer awareness, prevention, and treatment initiatives.

In February 2024, the Ministry of Health in South Sudan partnered with the U.S.-based Dana-Farber Cancer Institute to collaborate on raising awareness and gathering data on cancer in the country. This collaboration underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing the challenges of cancer care in resource-constrained settings.

Looking Towards a Brighter Future

The approval of South Sudan’s first oncology department represents a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to combat cancer and improve healthcare outcomes for its population. With a dedicated focus on cancer prevention, awareness, and treatment, the new department will play a crucial role in expanding access to quality care for cancer patients nationwide.

As the Ministry of Health moves forward with the integration of cancer services into its structure and budget planning, there is hope for a brighter future for individuals affected by cancer in South Sudan. Through continued collaboration, advocacy, and investment in healthcare infrastructure, the country is poised to make significant strides in the fight against cancer and improve the well-being of its citizens.