The Carter Center and South Sudan’s Eastern Equatoria State Ministry of Health launched a one-day awareness campaign Tuesday to promote the mass administration of trachoma medication in Torit County.
The campaign, themed “Uniting Stakeholders for Impactful Action,” aims to strengthen community mobilization and advocacy in combating trachoma, a leading infectious cause of blindness.
More than 50 participants, including policymakers, health workers, community leaders and advocates, discussed strategies to improve public acceptance of mass drug administration (MDA).
Lochebe Boniface, senior program officer for trachoma at the Carter Center, stressed the importance of community involvement in expanding treatment access.
“Torit is the seat of government and has a large population. We want everyone to receive the same message about this health program,” he said. “Today, we are all here for a mission—to be ambassadors in the fight against disease.”
Lochebe said the Carter Center is collaborating with the Health Ministry to eliminate trachoma.
Dr. Amin Gordiano, director of primary health care in the state Health Ministry, explained that trachoma is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria, spread through direct or indirect contact with eye or nasal discharge.
“Globally, 1.9 million people suffer from vision impairment due to trachoma,” he said. Symptoms include eye redness, irritation and discharge.
He urged improved hygiene and sanitation, noting that water scarcity exacerbates the disease. Surgery and antibiotics can treat advanced cases, while MDA helps prevent infection in endemic areas.
Angelo James Ayonyang, chair of the state assembly’s health committee, called for intensified awareness efforts.
“We must eradicate trachoma by spreading information at every opportunity—in schools, workplaces and communities,” he said.
Acting Health Minister Sammy Lopeyok Aperengole praised partners like the Carter Center for their support in disease control.
“The ministry has capable staff, but partnerships are crucial,” he said. “The Carter Center has been instrumental in reaching remote areas.”
He suggested expanding the center’s role to tackle other diseases, such as malaria.
Trachoma remains a public health concern in South Sudan, with mass drug administration a key strategy in elimination efforts.