Health Leaders Meet in Juba on Financing Challenges

(JUBA) –

A high level dialogue on health financing has opened in Juba as the government and development partners search for ways to strengthen funding for the health sector during a period of global economic pressure. The meeting is taking place at the Pyramid Continental Hotel.

The event has been organised by the Ministry of Health in partnership with the Ministry of Finance and the World Bank. It brings together senior officials, partners and technical experts to discuss the financial difficulties facing health services across South Sudan. The discussions focus on how to secure predictable and sustainable funding at a time when the global economy is slowing and donor budgets are tightening.

Speaking at the opening session, the Minister of Health, Sarah Cleto Rial, called for stronger domestic investment to support essential health services. She said South Sudan needs to increase national resources for health if it is to protect gains made in recent years and respond to rising needs across the country.

She explained that domestic funding remains low and that the health system relies heavily on partners. She urged the government to prioritise health in national planning and encouraged partners to continue supporting key programmes. Her comments come as the health sector struggles with reduced external financing due to wider international financial pressures.

Officials at the event said the dialogue aims to develop practical recommendations that can help South Sudan manage current funding gaps while planning for long term improvements. They noted that increased national commitment is important for stability, service delivery and the wider economic agenda.

Below is a simple table summarising the main themes of the dialogue.

Government and World Bank in Health Funding Talks