Cholera Outbreak in Juba

The Medical Director of Juba Teaching Hospital has warned the public to avoid drinking untreated river water and buying food exposed to flies and dust in the streets to prevent contracting cholera. This warning comes as the hospital has seen a surge in cholera cases, with nearly 50 new patients admitted on Sunday alone.

Causes of the Outbreak

According to Dr. Isaac Maker, the rapid rise in cases is due to poor hygiene practices and the consumption of unsafe, unhygienic food. He emphasized the importance of good hygiene and eating clean food to prevent the spread of the disease. Dr. Maker also linked the rise in cases to recent rains in Central Equatoria, which have affected several areas around Juba.

Precautions to Take

To avoid contracting cholera, Dr. Maker advised the public to be cautious about what they eat and drink. He warned against buying food from the streets that is exposed to flies and dust, as these are sources of cholera infection. Instead, people should drink clean, boiled water and avoid drinking straight from the river.

The Current Situation

The cholera outbreak was first declared in October 2024 in Upper Nile State, and has since spread rapidly across the country. The Ministry of Health has confirmed over 45,000 cases and over 800 fatalities across nine states and two administrative areas, with children being the most affected.

What is Cholera?

Cholera is an acute diarrheal infection caused by consuming food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It is classified as a global public health threat and indicates inequity and lack of social and economic development. Access to safe water, basic sanitation, and hygiene is essential to prevent cholera and other waterborne diseases.

Treatment and Prevention

Most people with cholera have mild or moderate diarrhea and can be treated with oral rehydration solution (ORS). However, the disease can progress rapidly, so starting treatment quickly is vital to save lives. The World Health Organization (WHO) has provided additional beds to the Juba Teaching Hospital to help accommodate the influx of patients.

Conclusion

The cholera outbreak in Juba is a serious public health concern that requires immediate attention. By taking precautions such as drinking clean water, eating hygienic food, and practicing good hygiene, people can reduce their risk of contracting the disease. It is essential for the government and health organizations to work together to provide access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene to prevent the spread of cholera and other waterborne diseases.

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.

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.

Suspension of Slaughterhouses in Rajaf Payam

The Central Equatoria State Minister of Animal Resources, Alex Lotiyu Elia, has ordered the immediate suspension of operations at slaughterhouses in Rajaf Payam due to serious concerns over sanitation and public health. This decision was made after an inspection visit to Rajaf, where unhygienic conditions were found at the facilities.

Reason for Suspension

Minister Elia stated that the lives and health of people are more important than the financial benefits obtained from the facility. He emphasized that the suspension is temporary, until the hygiene-related issues are resolved. The move is aimed at protecting public health and ensuring food safety for citizens in Juba and across Central Equatoria State.

Meeting with Stakeholders

Minister Elia has called for a meeting with slaughterhouse officials, butchers, the city council, and law enforcement to discuss the future of sanitation in the slaughterhouses. The meeting is scheduled to take place in his office, where stakeholders will work together to find a solution to the issue. Minister Elia appealed to the government to take a decisive position on the issue regarding the slaughterhouses in Juba.

Proposed Solutions

The Director of the slaughterhouses in Bilinyang, Paulo Paul, suggested relocating the slaughterhouses far from people or providing vehicles to transport the slaughterhouse waste. He emphasized the need for the government to provide a suitable location for the slaughterhouses and to issue permits for their operation.

Conclusion

The suspension of slaughterhouses in Rajaf Payam is a necessary step to protect public health and ensure food safety. The meeting with stakeholders will provide an opportunity to discuss and find solutions to the hygiene-related issues. It is essential for the government to take a decisive position on the issue and work towards providing a suitable location for the slaughterhouses. The health and well-being of citizens should be the top priority, and it is crucial to find a solution that balances the needs of the community with the need for safe and hygienic food production.