By Sabri Dibaco
The Unity State Government has officially assumed responsibility for health service delivery at the Bentiu Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp following the handover of a health facility previously managed by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
The transition was marked by a visit by Unity State Minister of Health, Jal Puok Nhial, to the facility located in the former Protection of Civilians (PoC) site.
During the visit, the minister was welcomed by the Community High Committee chairman, officials from the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC), community elders, youth, and women representatives.
The handover signifies a major step in shifting from humanitarian-led services to government-managed healthcare delivery in the camp.
Speaking during the event, the press secretary, Jal Puok Nhial, said the state government is committed to ensuring uninterrupted access to healthcare services for camp residents.
“This handover marks the official transition of the facility from humanitarian service delivery to government-led health service delivery,” the statement reads in part
He noted that under the leadership of Governor Joseph Nguen Monytuil, the government is taking responsibility for strengthening accountability, ensuring continuity of care, and expanding access to quality primary healthcare services.
According to the minister, the facility will continue to offer a wide range of essential health services, including outpatient consultations, maternal and child healthcare, immunisation, antenatal care, nutrition screening, and disease surveillance.
Jal Puok also emphasised the importance of peace and social cohesion in improving service delivery.
“A stable and peaceful community enables the government and partners to better identify priorities, plan effectively, and deliver sustainable health services,” the statement reads
The minister further reaffirmed the government’s dedication to protecting the dignity and health rights of all people living in the camp and called on residents to support ongoing efforts to strengthen the health system.
“The Office of the Minister encourages all residents to support the Governor and the State Government as we transition to a stronger, government-led health system that serves the people of Unity State,” the statement reads in part
Bentiu IDP Camp, formerly known as the Bentiu Protection of Civilians (PoC) site, was established during the South Sudan conflict to provide protection and humanitarian assistance to displaced populations.
For years, health services in the camp have been largely delivered by humanitarian organisations, including the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), with support from international partners.
The handover of the health facility to the Unity State Ministry of Health reflects broader efforts by the government and humanitarian partners to transition essential public services to local authorities, promoting sustainability, local ownership, and improved accountability in service delivery.
The move is expected to strengthen the state’s healthcare system while ensuring continued access to critical medical services for thousands of camp residents.