South Sudan’s Ministry of Health has flagged off a fresh campaign against trachoma in Malakal, renewing momentum in the national drive to eliminate neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).
The campaign was launched last week by Undersecretary Dr. Aniin Ngot Ngot, who also inaugurated the country’s NTD Master Plan (2023–2027) during the visit.
The plan serves as a roadmap to accelerate interventions against trachoma and other NTDs nationwide.
“Every health worker and every household must understand the roadmap we are following,” Dr. Ngot said, calling on county health departments to take full ownership of the plan and ensure its dissemination at community level.
The launch coincided with celebrations in Renk County, which has been declared free from mass drug administration following a trachoma impact survey that confirmed it had reached the World Health Organization (WHO) elimination threshold.
“This is a huge achievement,” Dr. Ngot noted, commending local health authorities and partners.
In Malakal, the Undersecretary opened a Training of Trainers program to prepare health workers for the next round of antibiotic distribution and later flagged off the new MDA campaign.
Thousands are expected to benefit, with officials urging families to support the SAFE strategy—Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial cleanliness, and Environmental improvement.
Partners echoed their support. “NTD elimination requires commitment and collaboration from all of us,” said John Bebe, Project Manager for Neglected Tropical Diseases at Amref Health Africa.
He emphasized Amref’s long-standing partnership with the Ministry of Health and its work across most of the country delivering training, services, and disease control initiatives.
Yak Yak Bol, Director of Preventive Chemotherapy for NTDs at the ministry, explained that while Renk had reached WHO standards, many counties still require multiple MDA rounds.
“Some counties need only one more round, others may require up to five,” he said.
He acknowledged logistical difficulties in conflict-affected areas but assured that the ministry is working to reach every community.
Upper Nile State health officials welcomed the launch, with Director General Dr. Isaac Wango stressing that community participation and improved water and sanitation services remain key to success.
The Ministry of Health also extended appreciation to WHO, UNICEF, Global Fund, CBM, Amref, and other partners for their continued support in tackling trachoma.
Trachoma, caused by repeated bacterial infections, can lead to irreversible blindness if untreated. With renewed commitment and expanded drug distribution, health officials say South Sudan is moving closer to eliminating the disease as a public health problem.
