Health Minister Advocates Traditional Medicine at Global Summit

(NEW DELHI, INDIA) – South Sudan’s Minister of Health, Hon. Sarah Cleto Rial, participated in the second WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine held in New Delhi, India, from 17 to 19 December 2025. During the summit, she emphasised the importance of integrating evidence based traditional medicine into national health systems while respecting culture, scientific standards and patient safety.

During her visit to the All India Institute and Hospital of Ayurveda, Minister Rial observed practical applications of traditional medicine in promoting holistic health. She noted that these experiences revealed the value of preserving cultural heritage in healthcare while fostering innovation and effective patient care.

The summit provided a platform for global discussions on traditional healing practices, allowing participants to share knowledge, explore collaborations and promote evidence based approaches. Minister Rial’s contributions centred on how South Sudan can incorporate these practices safely and effectively within its health system.

Back in South Sudan, the Ministry of Health held a High Level Steering Committee meeting to strengthen national health strategies. The committee focused on transparency, financial accountability and the effective delivery of medical services.

Key areas discussed included technical analysis, collaboration with partners, improved management, and briefings to the Cabinet on progress and challenges across the country. The Ministry affirmed its commitment to making data-driven decisions to improve the health and well-being of South Sudanese citizens.

 On 15 December 2025, Minister Rial also met H.E. Anil Nautiyal, the Indian Ambassador to South Sudan, to discuss healthcare cooperation. Their talks explored potential collaboration in hospital services, medicine importation, expert exchanges, capacity building and scholarship opportunities for South Sudanese students.

The Minister acknowledged India’s ongoing support in medicine supply, healthcare professional training and scholarships. Ambassador Nautiyal highlighted the potential for Indian experts to visit South Sudan for medical assistance and stressed the importance of building local capacity in the health sector.

Statements published by the National Health Ministry portal said the meetings and summit participation reinforce South Sudan’s commitment to strengthening its healthcare system, integrating traditional and modern practices and expanding international collaboration to address critical health challenges.

South Sudan Promotes Evidence Based Traditional Medicine