Progressive Women Initiative, a local women’s organization in Central Equatoria State’s Yei River County, on Saturday donated washing and liquid soap to female patients in Yei Civil Hospital during activities to commemorate International Women’s Day, which is marked on 8 March.
The solidarity visit focused on women across several wards, particularly maternity and children’s wards, where vulnerable mothers and female patients received hygiene support.
Sunday Rose, the chairwoman of the Progressive Women Initiative, said the support was meant to show love and solidarity to women at the hospital facing difficult times.
“The theme of this year’s women’s day is ‘Giving and sharing,’ so we do not want to enjoy alone; that is why we came up with this idea to come and share with the sick and the hospital’s administration,” she explained. “Women have a role to play during Women’s Day because we face domestic violence in our homes, which is not good. So, it is our role to come together and support those going through tough times in the hospital.”
Meanwhile, Yei Civil Hospital Medical Director Joseph Khamis lauded the women for their thoughtful initiative, highlighting the importance of the donation of soap as being important in promoting hygiene and infection prevention for both patients and health workers.
“It is actually the first time I am seeing such a kind gesture. It is important to do good things, and this is part of progress for women. As the administration of the hospital, we always encourage community initiatives for our people to improve their health,” he said. “One of the pillars of health is infection prevention, and control is being clean, and without soap, you cannot maintain cleanliness. So, it is good you came to help in that aspect, and also to stand with the people in the hospital.”
The beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the Progressive Women Initiative, with some calling for love, unity, and good guidance for young people.
“We appreciate what this group has done for us today in the hospital. The soap will help us so much,” a beneficiary who preferred anonymity said. “I just want to say let love lead; women should support each other during such hard economic situations in the country. I appeal that such initiatives continue supporting those in the hospitals because they face numerous challenges.”
The Progressive Women Initiative distributing team moved from ward to ward, offering prayers and words of encouragement before handing over the items.