Poor Roads Hamper Health Supervision in Pochalla County

(POCHALLA COUNTY, JONGLEI STATE) – A health supervision team is assessing and strengthening health services across Pochalla County, Jonglei State, mentoring local healthcare workers and engaging authorities to improve health system performance despite difficult conditions.

Since the assignment began, the team has carried out several coordination and supervision activities. In Pochalla North, the team conducted supportive supervision visits to Otallo Primary Health Care Centre and Ajwara Primary Health Care Centre.

According to the National Health Ministry in Juba, theese visits focused on assessing the functionality of health facilities, reviewing service delivery, identifying operational gaps, mentoring healthcare workers and providing on site technical guidance to improve the quality of healthcare services.

Poor road infrastructure and the absence of reliable mobile network coverage have significantly affected movement between health facilities. Access remains difficult and travel times are long. Despite these constraints, the team completed all planned supervision activities.

The team held a meeting with the County Health Department focal person in Pochalla to strengthen coordination with local health authorities.

Discussions centred on planning movements to health facilities, coordinating supervision schedules, enhancing collaboration between the supervision team and county health authorities, and ensuring the effective implementation of supportive supervision activities throughout the county.

Upon arrival in Pochalla South, the team paid a courtesy visit to the Acting Commissioner and security personnel. The meeting focused on security arrangements, operational planning and logistical coordination for movements to the targeted health facilities.

The Acting Commissioner assured the team of their safety and security throughout their stay and pledged the full support of the county administration to facilitate the successful implementation of the assignment.

Beyond health facility assessments, the supportive supervision mission is providing an opportunity to engage healthcare workers through mentorship, coaching and technical guidance, according to a statement from the Ministry of Health in Juba:

The aim is to improve adherence to national standards and strengthen routine health service delivery.

The press release also stated the team is engaging local leaders, health authorities and community stakeholders to promote collaboration, identify local health priorities and encourage community participation in improving health outcomes.