Western Equatoria State has received a shipment of essential drugs and medical supplies from South Sudan’s National Ministry of Health, officials said Friday.
State Health Minister James Abdallah Arona confirmed the delivery at the Yambio Central Medical Store, saying the last shipment arrived in May 2025 and that some previously stored medicines were nearing expiration.
“We waited for your presence to formally acknowledge the new shipment so our team can begin distributing the drugs to health facilities across the state,” Arona told journalists.
The latest batch includes anti-malarial drugs, antibiotics and limited quantities of other medicines for common illnesses. Arona urged the national government and international partners to send more supplies to meet growing demand.
“We continue appealing to the National Ministry of Health and health partners to provide additional stocks to prevent shortages,” he said.
Rose Obede, director general at the State Ministry of Health, said the shipment will be distributed to all 10 counties in Western Equatoria.
“Having our chief executive inspect the shipment before handover demonstrates our commitment to transparency, accountability and better health services,” Obede said.
Paul Gore, storekeeper at Yambio State Hospital, said the facility is managing the drugs properly but acknowledged past struggles with limited storage space and poor infrastructure.
Acting Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa pledged to improve storage conditions.
“We will work with the Health Ministry to upgrade the facility, ensuring proper ventilation and shelving. I personally commit to supporting this effort,” he said.