Launching of the distribution of emergency medicines and medical supplies
On 29th June, the Health Pooled Fund (HPF) together with the Ministry of Health launched the distribution of emergency medicines and medical supplies at the organisation’s warehouse in Juba. Minister of Health Dr Riek Gai Kok was among the invited guests and while addressing the audience, thanked the HPF’s donors.
In the coming weeks, 880 metric tons of medical supplies will be distributed throughout South Sudan both by road and air. “There is no better time for this celebration, especially during the rainy season when malaria and chest infections are on the rise. We are connected by humanity and with today’s intervention and we are doing something for the people of South Sudan. In this difficult time of nation building, we see that you have not abandoned us,” said the Minister of Health.
The distribution is targeting 1,403 facilities throughout South Sudan, providing hospitals and smaller health posts with life-saving medical supplies such as antibiotics, vitamins and latex gloves, among many others. A total of 68-line items have been selected between donors and the Ministry of Health and are shipped out in bulk. “These are aimed to treat patients even in the most remote parts of the country. We have made two similar distributions in the past year and are aiming to deliver even more supplies in the coming months,” explains HPF’s Head of Operations Mick Robson.
With tough logistics in South Sudan, round-trip deliveries can take up to two weeks and must be planned thoroughly. The Distribution Manager Brian Bloor says, before the trucks are send out, there is need to ensure correct paperwork and coordinate with local teams on the ground throughout the country to guarantee safety.
Following the ceremony and symbolic hand-over of supplies, the Minister of Health, together with his secretary Dr Makur Kariom, visited the biggest warehouse in South Sudan accompanied by representatives from Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States. The delegation learned about the different shipments and was able to witness the loading of delivery trucks.
“This is our biggest distribution yet and the drugs we are supplying are absolutely essential and life-saving,” said Mick Robson.
The Minister of Heath ended his address with a warm “thank you to the donors and their governments.