By Sabri Dibaco
The Unity State Government, in collaboration with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), has announced plans to urgently rehabilitate the road leading to Bentiu State Hospital.
This followed growing concerns over limited access to critical health services.
The decision was reached after a high-level meeting involving the state minister of health, Jal Puok; MSF coordinator Allan Fernandez De la Rosa; governor Joseph Nguen Manytuil; and deputy governor Gatjang Gieng.
According to officials, discussions focused on the joint management of essential medical services at the hospital, including emergency surgery, maternity care, paediatrics, neonatology, and the pediatric emergency unit.
Authorities raised alarm over the deteriorating condition of the hospital access road, which has been severely damaged by seasonal rains over recent years.
“The road has become waterlogged and often impassable, significantly hindering the movement of ambulances and emergency vehicles, especially for pregnant women and critically ill patients,” said Minister Jal Puok.
Health officials warned that the situation poses a serious risk, as delays in reaching the hospital could lead to preventable deaths.
Following the meeting, the minister conducted an on-site inspection to assess the extent of the damage and identify immediate rehabilitation needs. The Ministry of Health, in partnership with MSF, has now committed to restoring the road to ensure safe and reliable, year-round access to healthcare services.
“The Ministry of Health and MSF have agreed to jointly undertake the restoration of the road to guarantee safe access to healthcare for the people of Unity State,” the minister said.
During his visit, Minister Jal also inspected the hospital’s pharmaceutical storage facility to verify the condition of recently delivered medicines and ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure and strengthening the management of medical supplies across Unity State, emphasising that access to quality healthcare remains a top priority.