UK Provides Large Funding Boost for South Sudan’s Health Services

(JUBA) – The United Kingdom has announced a $26 million contribution to the Health Sector Transformation Project, a national programme that supports primary health, maternal care and nutrition services across South Sudan. The funding, confirmed by officials on Wednesday, will be channelled through the World Bank led Multi Donor Trust Fund.

The contribution is equivalent to about 184.6 billion South Sudanese Pounds (SSP) at the current market exchange rate of $1 to 7,100 SSP. According to officials, the new support will help strengthen basic health and nutrition services in counties across the country where health facilities continue to face shortages.

UK Ambassador David Ashley said Britain remains one of the longest standing partners in South Sudan’s health sector but noted that external support cannot replace the government’s responsibility to fund essential services.

He said the UK’s support is designed to help improve services, especially for women and children, but stressed that government investment is necessary for sustainable progress. Ashley urged national, state and county authorities to prioritise health using public revenues, saying that the welfare of citizens depends on consistent funding.

Ashley noted that the health of children should be considered a national priority, adding that the UK is making its contribution and expects the government to strengthen its own commitment so that communities can access proper care.

The Health Sector Transformation Project plays a central role in providing primary health care, maternal and child health services and critical nutrition programmes across South Sudan. Development partners say continued investment is needed to keep facilities functioning, ensure medicines remain available, and support frontline workers serving remote and hard to reach areas.

South Sudan Health Sector Receives $26 Million from UK