Women Raise Alarm Over Poor Healthcare Services, Warn of Risks to Pregnant Mothers

By Jenifer James

Women in Kuli Papa Boma, Gungji Payam of Juba County, have raised concerns about inadequate healthcare services, warning that pregnant women face life-threatening risks due to limited access to safe delivery options, especially during nighttime emergencies.

In an exclusive interview with The Dawn Newspaper on Saturday, resident Mary Wani highlighted the challenges expectant mothers face in accessing timely care, which puts both their lives and those of their newborns at risk.

“The hospital situation is dire. If a mother needs to deliver at night, it becomes very difficult. If the family cannot afford it, the mother’s life is endangered,” Mary explained.

She urged the government to address these healthcare challenges before residents cast their votes in the upcoming elections, emphasizing that access to essential medical services should be a priority.

“We have a primary healthcare center here, but it lacks medication. We need both medicine and health workers to help us. Yes, people are present, but services are inadequate,” she stated.

Mary added that the situation for pregnant women is particularly dire at night, making it nearly impossible to get them to Juba for delivery. The cost of transportation to Juba is approximately 40,000 South Sudanese Pounds, and public transport services typically cease operations around 7 p.m.

Meanwhile, Martina Keji reported that the community is also grappling with a water shortage following the breakdown of its only functioning borehole.

“The only borehole that was operational has broken down,” Keji said, urging leaders to prioritize service delivery and address the community’s needs.

Kuli Papa Boma, located about two hours’ drive from Juba, continues to face significant challenges in accessing fundamental services such as healthcare, clean drinking water, and education, despite its proximity to the capital. Access to safe drinking water remains a critical concern, and the limited educational facilities hinder children’s ability to receive quality education within their community.