A Nationwide First Step
South Sudan’s Ministry of Health has confirmed an agreement with the World Health Organization to lead the country’s inaugural baseline assessment of cancer. Dr. Albino Amum Awin described the move as a decisive stride toward data-driven oncology policy.
Mapping the Hidden Burden
The study will catalogue incidence, morbidity, mortality and prevalence across every state. Officials believe only robust numbers can illuminate the true scale of the disease and guide investment toward populations most at risk.
Auditing Care on the Ground
Investigators will examine diagnostic capacity, treatment availability, staffing levels and the condition of essential equipment. “This process is vital to identify existing gaps and set up the necessary interventions,” Dr. Albino explained after the high-level planning meeting.
Building a National Cancer Registry
A key deliverable is a modern registry able to track cases in real time and synchronise with regional initiatives. The platform is expected to simplify referrals, strengthen follow-ups and align South Sudan with global reporting standards.
Regional Momentum and Patient Hope
Health officials note that neighbouring countries, including Congo-Brazzaville, are ready to share technical lessons from their own oncology reforms. With international support, Juba hopes the assessment will translate into resilient, equitable cancer services for patients nationwide.