VP Hussein: Government must take lead in health funding

2026-03-29 - 09:45

Vice President for the Services Cluster Hussein Abdelbagi Akol said the government must take primary responsibility for funding South Sudan’s health sector, as external support declines and pressure on public services grows. Speaking during a national dialogue on HIV, tuberculosis (TB), and malaria in Juba on Friday, Abdelbagi said government co-financing is both a financial duty and a moral obligation to the country’s citizens. “The global financing landscape is changing. The donor pool is shrinking, and the competition for resources is increasing,” he said. “While we remain grateful for international solidarity, we fully recognize that the health of our people is the responsibility of the government of South Sudan.” The one-day meeting, organized by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Country Coordinating Mechanism and the South Sudan AIDS Commission, reviewed recent assessments of HIV, TB, and malaria programs. It also sought to align stakeholders on priorities and validate updated National Strategic Plans. Discussions focused on the Global Fund Grant Cycle 8, a three-year initiative aimed at accelerating the elimination of the three diseases as major public health threats. Participants examined ways to strengthen coordination, mobilize resources, and improve service delivery across the country. Abdelbagi pointed to persistent challenges facing the sector, including limited infrastructure, shortages of health workers, and a heavy disease burden. “As the Vice President responsible for the service delivery cluster, I am aware of the challenges we face, including limited infrastructure, gaps in human resources, and the burden of disease,” he said. “Government co-financing is a necessity. It demonstrates ownership, accountability, and sustainability.” He also praised health workers for their dedication, describing them as the backbone of the country’s health system, and commended communities for their resilience. “I want to commend the resilience of the people of South Sudan despite adversity. Our communities continue to persevere with dignity and strength,” Abdelbagi said. “My deepest appreciation goes to our health workers across the country who support our people tirelessly.” The vice president further expressed appreciation to President Salva Kiir Mayardit, linking peace and stability to improvements in public health services. “We must align our priorities, strengthen coordination among partners, and ensure investments are directed where they are needed most,” he said. “Together, we can build a healthier South Sudan.”