Yei Launches Major Campaign to Combat Blindness and Elephantiasis

(YEI RIVER COUNTY)– Authorities in Yei River County have launched preparations for a large-scale medicine distribution campaign aimed at preventing blindness and elephantiasis across the county.

Speaking during a one-day stakeholders’ meeting in Yei on Tuesday, County Commissioner Samuel Henry Malimbo welcomed health officials, media practitioners and other partners gathered to plan the exercise, which is scheduled to begin next week following the training of community volunteers.

Officials from the National Ministry of Health said the campaign is targeting more than 387,000 people, with an estimated 310,000 expected to receive preventive treatment. Michael Salah from the ministry said about 1,500 volunteers will be trained and deployed to communities across the county, reaching villages at the grassroots level to support medicine distribution efforts.

Commissioner Malimbo thanked local media houses for their continued role in providing accurate health information and encouraged stronger collaboration among health authorities, journalists and other stakeholders to raise public awareness about the campaign.

County Health Director Simon Musoga welcomed the county administration’s support, saying the partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to addressing public health challenges. The campaign is expected to commence next week after the completion of volunteer orientation and training activities.