World Bank-Funded Transformation Begins
Governor Dr Riek Gai Kok confirmed that Jonglei’s Health System Transformation Project, financed by the World Bank through UNICEF, is moving to its recruitment phase. He spoke during a routine inspection of Bor State Hospital, outlining plans to hire skilled staff for frontline facilities.
Five medical specialists will form the first cohort, bolstering surgery, paediatrics, obstetrics, internal medicine and emergency care. Dr Kok said the investment aims to position Bor as a regional referral centre, easing pressure on Juba Teaching Hospital.
Specialists Expected to Cut Referrals
“With these doctors on board, we anticipate a sharp decline in outbound referrals,” the governor remarked, noting that neighbouring Lakes State and the Greater Pibor Administrative Area could soon send patients north. He emphasised that better supervision will accompany the new hires.
Local Voices on System Gaps
Reath Kong, Director-General at the state Ministry of Health, said service delivery has improved yet remains fragile. Limited laboratory reagents and pharmacy stock continue to frustrate clinicians, but he pledged persistent collaboration with partners to close the gaps.
Akuot Bulabek Deng from Tearfund welcomed the governor’s unannounced tour, calling it “a morale booster for frontline teams.” She reiterated her staff’s commitment to the hospital mandate and urged timely supply chains to translate policy promises into bedside outcomes.
Supervision and Regulation Intensified
Parliamentarian Dr Benjamin Malek, who chairs the national health committee, voiced confidence that Governor Kok’s approach will drive steady national gains. He called on Bor’s clinicians to remain “resolute and professional” as oversight visits, inspections and licensing reviews become routine.
State officials have already launched weekly audits at Bor State Hospital, documenting equipment status, medicine availability and training curricula. Early findings guide incremental fixes rather than sweeping reforms, a tactic authorities believe will keep services stable during the expansion phase.