(NEW DELHI, INDIA/JUBA, SOUTH SUDAN) – South Sudan’s Ministry of Health is pursuing a strategy to strengthen the national health sector through a combination of traditional medicine integration and international collaboration. Hon. Sarah Cleto Rial, Minister of Health, represented South Sudan at the second WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine in New Delhi, India, held from 17 to 19 December 2025.
During her visit to the All India Institute and Hospital of Ayurveda, Minister Rial observed how traditional medicine is applied in promoting holistic health and patient well-being. She stressed the importance of integrating evidence-based traditional practices into South Sudan’s health system while ensuring patient safety and respecting cultural heritage.
The summit brought together global experts to discuss the future of traditional healing practices. Minister Rial’s contributions emphasised the balance between preserving cultural knowledge and adopting scientific approaches to healthcare. The event provided an opportunity for South Sudan to engage with international stakeholders on potential collaborations and best practices in traditional medicine.
At home, the Ministry of Health convened a High-Level Steering Committee meeting to advance strategic plans for the national health sector. The committee reviewed technical analyses, financial transparency, collaboration with key partners, and the management of healthcare services. Ministers and officials discussed progress and challenges facing the health sector, with a focus on ensuring that decisions are guided by data and aimed at improving the well-being of all citizens.
On 15 December 2025, Minister Rial met H.E. Anil Nautiyal, the Indian Ambassador to South Sudan, to explore ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in health. Discussions focused on hospital services, medicine supply, expert exchange, capacity building and scholarship programmes for South Sudanese students.
The Minister acknowledged India’s support in healthcare professional training, medicine procurement, and scholarships. Ambassador Nautiyal noted the potential for Indian medical experts to visit South Sudan and provide care while supporting capacity-building initiatives for local healthcare workers.
Statements by the National Ministry of Health said the various engagements reflect South Sudan’s commitment to developing a modern and effective health system. The approach combines the safe use of traditional medicine, data-driven health planning, and international partnerships to strengthen healthcare delivery and professional expertise in the country.
Key initiatives and partnerships
| Initiative | Focus | Partner / Stakeholder |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional medicine integration | Evidence-based health practices | WHO, All India Institute of Ayurveda |
| Health system strengthening | Technical review, transparency, service delivery | South Sudan Ministry of Health, HLSC |
| India-South Sudan health cooperation | Capacity building, expert exchange, scholarships | Indian Embassy, South Sudan Ministry of Health |
| Pharmacopoeia protocol development | Standards for medicine use | WHO, Indian experts, MoH |
