Amidst the cholera outbreak in South Sudan, the U.S. Embassy is taking action on behalf of the American people with the support of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Collaborating with partners such as UNICEF, IOM, MSF, and WHO, the U.S. Embassy is actively involved in providing crucial assistance to combat the spread of cholera.
One significant contribution made by the U.S. Embassy was the delivery of over two million Aquatab water purification tablets on December 29. These tablets, facilitated through USAID, have the capacity to treat six million gallons of water, ensuring safe drinking water for communities heavily impacted by the outbreak.
Furthermore, the United States has pledged $200,000 to the World Health Organization (WHO) to support cholera response initiatives in South Sudan. This funding will facilitate public awareness campaigns on cholera risks and preventive measures, bolster WASH interventions, and equip health professionals with essential resources for effective case management.
Since the initial confirmation of cholera in Upper Nile State on October 23, the outbreak has escalated rapidly, with over 13,206 cases and 199 fatalities reported as of December 29. The Aquatabs donation and additional financial support underscore America’s unwavering commitment to assisting the people of South Sudan during this critical period.
Expressing solidarity with the population of South Sudan, the U.S. Embassy’s intervention is poised to save lives and mitigate the spread of cholera within vulnerable communities. Simultaneously, there is a renewed call for South Sudan’s transitional government to allocate public resources towards addressing healthcare needs, delivering essential services, and ensuring timely payment of salaries for healthcare workers, civil servants, and security personnel.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of U.S. Embassy in South Sudan.
