In the early morning hours of Thursday, 28-year-old Maria Nyal, a resident of Malakal Centre Payam, walked into Malakal Teaching Hospital seeking medical care. Upon arrival, she was directed to see a doctor for consultation. After examination and laboratory tests, Nyal was diagnosed with malaria. However, when she returned to collect her prescribed medication, she was informed that the hospital pharmacy had run out of medicines.
“This came as a shock to me because I could not afford to buy the medicine,” she narrated.
Unable to raise the money needed for the drugs, that could cost her 62 000 South Sudanese Pounds (approx. USD 10), Nyal returned home stressed. A neighbor advised her to return to the hospital for further guidance from the doctor. She followed the advice, and upon arrival at the facility, Nyal arrived to find a WHO delivery vehicle offloading freshly arrived medical consignments and was informed that the medicines had arrived and would finally be provided. “I could not believe it until the doctor confirmed it. Within a few minutes, I received my medication, went home, and started taking it. After three days, I began to feel much better,” she said
Nyal’s experience captures the reality faced by many patients in Malakal who struggle to access essential medicines.
Malakal Teaching Hospital, the only lifeline
Once a bustling center of care, Malakal Teaching Hospital one of South Sudan’s few main referral hospitals is steadily regaining its strength, restoring hope by delivering essential health services to communities across the State and beyond. Located in the northern reaches of South Sudan, the hospital once serves as a health lifeline of entire Upper Nile region before conflict brought it to a standstill.
Despite immense challenges including insecurity, recurrent flooding, and damaged infrastructure the hospital is making strides toward recovery. It currently serves an estimated catchment population of over 43 000 people and supports seven feeder Primary Health Care Units: Assosa, Malakia, MSF Clinic, Bam, Protection of Civilian Sites (PoC) Clinics 1 and 2, and Warjouk, all within Malakal County.
Additionally, it receives referrals from surrounding counties Baliet, Akoka, Panyikang, and Fashoda—further increasing the demand on its limited resources. With an average of over 9 000 patient consultations every month, the hospital’s workload reflects both its critical role and the growing pressure on its capacity.
Shortage of medicines and medical supplies
Despite serving an estimated population of nearly 248 thousand people, including internally displaced persons, returnees, and refugees affected by conflict, floods, and other disasters, Malakal State Hospital has been facing a serious shortage of medicines and medical supplies.
The consumption of antimalarial drugs per month is 1250 doses, and the facility has been out of stock for nearly two weeks. The shortage placed vulnerable patients at a severe risk of complications and preventable mortality. “It is always my pleasure to serve my people. However, seeing patients undergoing challenges such as having to buy their own medicines, and watching those who cannot afford them leave the facility empty-handed is troubling” said Deng Chol Ayat, a 38, a healthcare worker, and a resident of Malakal Central Payam
WHO rapid intervention
To address the critical health gap, WHO, with funding from the EU Civil Protection & Humanitarian Aid (ECHO), delivered over 1.4 metric tonnes (nearly 7 cubic meters) of life-saving medicines and medical supplies to the facility. The supplies arrived only after, two weeks of stock out. The delivery brought joy not only to the community but also to the dedicated healthcare workers. “I am excited, the delivery of the drugs is a game changer,” said Ayat. “I am grateful that our voice has been heard, and I am grateful to WHO for the timely support that will sustain our facility for at least few months and ease our stress.”
“Beyond the material value, the donation has restored optimism, strengthened staff confidence, and enhanced our ability to deliver care in accordance with professional standards”. said Dr Peter Magok, Director General Upper Nile State Ministry of Health. “These supplies have enabled the provision of safer patient care, reduced the risk of infection transmission, and improved treatment outcomes, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children suffering from malaria, pneumonia, and trauma related injuries. This vital replenishment has truly reinforced hope within our facility and provided our community with renewed opportunities for survival and well-being
“Reaching everyone, everywhere in the country with essential health services with the goal of saving lives is what we aim for. We are grateful to see improvement in health outcomes resulting from our interventions, including the delivery of medicines, training of healthcare workers and improved surveillance and coordination at all levels.” said Dr Humphrey Karamagi, WHO Representative for South Sudan, "WHO will continue monitoring the situation and will consistently address critical gaps to ensure that essential health services are provided at the required standards."