Author: Diko D. Andrew | Published: 2 hours ago
The signpost at Matangai Primary Health Care Center. Photo: Ministry of Health
In many parts of South Sudan, primary healthcare facilities continue to face challenges ranging from delayed government funding to limited operational resources.
These constraints often affect the quality and continuity of essential health services.
But in Matangai Payam of Lakes State, one community is showing how a simple local solution can help keep healthcare services running.
Patients visiting Matangai Primary Health Care Centre contribute 1,000 South Sudanese Pounds through a community-approved cost-sharing initiative.
Although the amount may seem modest, it has become an important source of support, helping the facility meet day-to-day operational needs when government funding or support from development partners is delayed.
According to the Officer in Charge of the health facility, Masana Musa, the initiative was introduced after consultations with the community health committee, which agreed that a small contribution from patients would help sustain basic services.
“We understand that SSP 1,000 is not a small amount for many families. However, the community health committee was fully involved in the decision because they understood that this small contribution would help keep the facility functioning even during periods when government salaries are delayed or partner support is not available,” he said.
Masana says the funds are used to support essential activities that directly improve healthcare delivery.
The money provides breakfast for health workers on duty, helps maintain a clean and safe environment for patients, and covers minor repairs at the facility.
Health workers say the initiative has improved their working conditions and helped ensure that basic health services continue despite limited resources.
The approach also reflects a growing sense of community ownership, with residents taking an active role in supporting their health facility rather than relying entirely on external assistance.
While health officials stress that government funding and support from development partners remain essential, they say locally driven initiatives like this can complement broader efforts to strengthen South Sudan’s primary healthcare system.
Matangai Primary Health Care Centre is among the facilities supported under the Health Sector Transformation Project, a government-led programme funded by the World Bank and development partners, with UNICEF and the World Health Organization serving as fund managers.
For the people of Matangai, the experience shows that when communities take ownership of their health services, even a small contribution can make a meaningful difference.
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