Oral Cholera Vaccination Drive Launched in Kapoeta

(Kapoeta) – A high level delegation from the Government of South Sudan, led by the national Minister of Health Hon. Sarah Cleto Rial, visited Kapoeta South County in Eastern Equatoria State on 28 June 2025 to officially launch an Oral Cholera Vaccine (OCV) campaign.

The campaign is part of the national effort to contain the spread of cholera, which has recently affected several areas across the country.

Hon. Cleto was joined by the National Minister of Environment and Forestry, Hon. Josephine Napwon and the Chairperson of the Health and Population Committee in the Transitional National Legislative Assembly.

Speaking at the launch, Cleto called on residents of Kapoeta South to remain vigilant and adopt preventive health practices, especially those related to hygiene and sanitation.

She noted that while the number of cholera cases in the county has recently declined, the threat of resurgence remains if communities let down their guard. “We must work together to ensure that our families and communities are safe from cholera,” she said.

Beyond the vaccination effort, the Health Minister promised to work towards improving healthcare delivery in the county. She acknowledged the difficulties experienced by both healthcare workers and the local population and committed to strengthening local health systems to better serve the community.

The Governor of Eastern Equatoria State, H.E. Louis Lobong Lojore, also addressed the gathering, urging residents to play their part in the fight against cholera. He stressed the important role of local leaders and the wider community in promoting health awareness and supporting public health initiatives. “Together, we can make a significant difference in our health outcomes,” he said.

Health authorities are encouraging all eligible individuals to receive the oral cholera vaccine and remain alert to symptoms of the disease.

Public participation and consistent hygiene practices are being highlighted as key to the success of the campaign and the prevention of future outbreaks.

Health officials have not disclosed the total cost of the campaign, but efforts such as these typically require significant resources.

The Ministry of Health updates the public via its official website at www.moh.gov.ss