By James Innocent
Health authorities and partners have officially launched a mental health isolation unit at Yei Civil Hospital in Yei River County, Central Equatoria State, marking a significant step toward improving mental health services in the region.
Speaking during the launch, the Director of the County Health Department, Simon Musoga, commended health workers in Yei, including mental health specialist Dr. Wole Taban Martin, for their dedication despite challenges in providing mental health services.
Musoga noted that the mental health department has faced numerous difficulties over the years but praised medical staff for their commitment and resilience in continuing to support patients in need.
Yei River County Commissioner Emmanuel Taban Seme also applauded Malteser International for rehabilitating the facility, describing the project as an important development for the county’s healthcare system.
He urged the medical team to continue working collaboratively to improve health services in line with the county’s five-year strategic development plan.
Officials from Malteser International said the project involved renovating an old building within the main civil hospital compound.
The rehabilitation work began in November 2025 and was completed in January 2026.
The Project Manager for Malteser International in Yei, Simaya Lodu James, expressed satisfaction while handing over the facility to the hospital management. He thanked the people of Yei and acknowledged the support of the German government for funding the project.
According to Malteser International, the organization has implemented several health projects in the region, including the construction or rehabilitation of Ronyi Primary Health Care Center, Mugwo PHC, Kegulu PHC, and other health facilities serving communities in Yei and surrounding areas, including parts of Lainya County such as Mukaya Payam.
Simaya added that other facilities in the region, including Luparate Primary Health Care Center, still require further upgrades, noting that the center currently serves more than 1,200 people with only one clinical staff member.
Health officials said the new isolation unit in Yei is the second of its kind in South Sudan, with the first located in Juba. The facility was rehabilitated at a cost of more than 120,000 US dollars.
Stakeholders called for proper maintenance of the new facility to ensure it remains functional and beneficial to the community.
Engineer Duku, one of the stakeholders present at the event, emphasized the need for inclusive healthcare services, especially for vulnerable patients. He also encouraged hospital management to maintain the facility and consider constructing additional shelters for patients and visitors.
Members of the hospital board also welcomed the development.
Hawa Adams, a member of the Yei Civil Hospital Board, thanked Malteser International for the rehabilitation of the mental health isolation center and highlighted the need for more office equipment to support hospital operations.
Hospital Administrator Towongo Ronald welcomed stakeholders to the ceremony and described the new unit as an important improvement in mental health services.
Acting Director of Yei Civil Hospital Joseph Khemis commended Malteser International for its continued support to the people of Yei since 2004, noting that the organization has played a key role in strengthening health services in the county.
Dr. Wole Taban Martin also called for increased support from the health department and development partners to address broader mental health challenges in the region.
Stakeholders at the event emphasized that strengthening collaboration between the government, health workers, and partners will be crucial in addressing mental health issues and improving healthcare delivery in Yei River County.