The daughter of South Sudanese President Salva Kiir has donated medical and educational supplies to the Ruweng Administrative Area, a northern region grappling with chronic health system failures.
Adut Salva Kiir’s donation, delivered through her Adut Salva Kiir (ASK) Foundation, included 26 cartons of antimalarial drugs, other medicines, and school materials. The supplies were received in Juba on Monday by Ruweng government officials but have not yet been transported to the area.
Ruweng’s health minister, Sarah Achol Bol, confirmed the donation in an interview with Radio Tamazuj on Monday, saying the aid would support health services in the Greater Abiemnom and Pariang areas.
“This support will enhance healthcare services in line with the policies of our government, led by His Excellency Stephano Wieu de Mialek,” Achol said.
While the donation has been welcomed, critics and local observers note that such contributions, though helpful, are no substitute for sustained investment in public health infrastructure.
Ruweng, home to key oil fields and a predominantly pastoralist population, faces severe health challenges, including poor medical facilities, a shortage of healthcare workers, and frequent disease outbreaks.
Seasonal flooding, logistical hurdles, and underfunding further disrupt services, forcing residents to travel long distances for basic care.
John Atong, a resident of the Ruweng area, expressed gratitude for the donation, saying it would be particularly useful during the rainy season when malaria cases rise.
“We appreciate the president’s daughter for this initiative,” Atong said.
However, it remains unclear when the supplies will arrive in Ruweng, as they are still being held in capital Juba.