(TEREKEKA COUNTY) – The South Sudan Doctors Union has announced plans for a five-day free surgical camp in Terekeka County, Central Equatoria State, from 23 to 28 January 2026. The initiative aims to provide life-saving operations, general medical care, and health education to residents while addressing long-standing shortages in local healthcare services.
Union officials said the outreach responds to recent cuts in health facilities and ongoing service gaps affecting the county. Dr Luka Dut, secretary-general of the Doctors Union, said the programme is designed to improve access to essential medical care, particularly in rural areas where health services are limited.
“The aim of this medical and surgical outreach is to increase access to the people of Central Equatoria,” Dr Dut said. He added that the initiative would include health education, consultations, and surgical interventions for community members.
The plans were presented during a meeting with Central Equatoria State Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony in Juba. Dr Dut said the governor expressed strong support for the project and pledged assistance for the broader healthcare sector. Discussions also included financial backing for state health workers pursuing specialist training abroad.
Derick Derickson, the governor’s press secretary, confirmed that the state government had pledged both moral and financial support for the surgical camp. “The governor pledges full support to make sure that this initiative is realized,” he said, noting that state leadership commended the Doctors Union for their work and emphasised the importance of improving healthcare access in remote communities.
The outreach reflects growing efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery in Central Equatoria, where rural populations often face challenges in accessing timely medical services. Experts say such programmes not only improve immediate health outcomes but also contribute to economic stability by reducing medical costs and increasing productivity.
Estimated Support and Service Reach
| Service Type | Expected Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General Medical Consultations | 1,200 patients | Rural and urban areas of Terekeka County |
| Surgical Procedures | 150 operations | Priority to life-saving and urgent cases |
| Health Education Sessions | 20 sessions | Focus on maternal, child, and preventative health |
| Specialist Support | 10 doctors | Includes visiting surgeons and paediatric specialists |
The State Press Unit said targeted initiatives like this help reduce pressure on existing facilities and can encourage government and private sector investment in the health sector, particularly in under-served counties like Terekeka.
