Health facilities are essential institutions that provide life-saving services to communities, especially during periods of conflict.
Warring parties across all states of South Sudan must protect hospitals, health centres and medical stores from looting, destruction, and other forms of violence.
Healthcare is a basic human need that must never be used as a tool of war. Regardless of political differences, military objectives, or disagreements among armed groups, hospitals and other medical facilities must remain safe places where patients can receive treatment without fear.
When health facilities are looted, the consequences are devastating. Medicines, medical equipment, ambulances, and other essential supplies may be stolen or destroyed, leaving doctors, nurses, and other health workers unable to perform their duties.
Patients suffering from injuries, malaria, maternal complications, and other illnesses may be left without the treatment they urgently need.
The people who suffer most are innocent civilians, particularly children, pregnant women, older people, and persons with disabilities. In many communities, a health centre may be the only available source of medical assistance. Destroying or looting such a facility can force patients to travel long distances in search of treatment, putting their lives at greater risk.
All parties to the conflict must understand that public health facilities belong to the people, not to the government, the military, or any political group.
They are built and equipped to serve communities regardless of ethnicity, political affiliation, religion, or geographical location.
Commanders of armed groups have a responsibility to ensure that their fighters respect medical facilities and personnel.
Soldiers and other armed individuals must not occupy hospitals unnecessarily, steal medicines, or use health centres to store weapons or conduct military operations in ways that endanger patients and medical workers.
International humanitarian law provides special protection for medical units and personnel during armed conflict. Deliberate attacks on medical facilities and the unlawful obstruction of medical services must not be tolerated.
Allegations of looting or attacks should be investigated, and those responsible should be held accountable in accordance with applicable law.
The government, humanitarian organisations, community leaders, and civil society groups should also strengthen public awareness about the importance of protecting health facilities.
Communities can help by reporting incidents safely and supporting efforts to keep medical services operational.
Furthermore, humanitarian agencies must be allowed to deliver medicines, medical equipment, and other essential supplies without interference. Health workers should be able to reach patients safely, even in areas affected by fighting.
Peace and security are necessary for sustainable healthcare delivery, but protecting hospitals must begin even before peace is fully restored.
Warring parties should immediately commit themselves to respecting medical facilities in every state and administrative area.
South Sudan’s health system is already facing serious challenges, and further destruction will only deepen the suffering of vulnerable communities.
No political or military objective should take precedence over the lives of innocent people.
God protect South Sudan.
Be the spectator!