In South Sudan, about two million children suffer from malnutrition, with many seeking treatment in health clinics. Mothers like Mary Guak and Abuk Malong face great challenges in providing for their children amid conflict and food scarcity. Dedicated healthcare workers strive to offer critical care and education to combat the crisis, emphasizing the need for extensive support.
In South Sudan, approximately two million children are currently affected by malnutrition, according to aid agencies. The situation is dire, as illustrated by a modest health clinic that treats these vulnerable children, providing a vital lifeline in a region plagued by hunger and conflict. Inside the clinic, pink mosquito nets hang above the beds of malnourished children receiving necessary care.
Mary Guak, a 29-year-old mother, shared that her six-month-old baby has struggled to feed properly for the last two months, resulting in breathing difficulties and fever. After spending three days in the clinic, she noted, “The child is improving now.” Due to declining supplies, Mary, who normally sells fishing nets to buy food, faces challenges in providing for her family.
Abuk Malong, sitting with her three-year-old stepson, expressed her struggle as a single parent: “We don’t have enough food to eat because the children don’t have a father. I’m their father and their mother.” She has taken responsibility for two children after marrying their father, who has passed away.
This health facility, located in the Gok Machar compound, operates adjacent to a nutrition center and accommodates individuals fleeing conflict from nearby Sudan. The World Health Organization warns that malnutrition rates among refugee children in certain camps can be as high as 30%. The existing conflict has intensified food shortages, resulting from severe climate changes affecting both nations.
Paediatric nurse Isaac Garang reported that common medical issues among malnourished children include dehydration, pneumonia, and malaria. The clinic administers essential care using antibiotics and specialized therapeutic milk, demonstrating a commitment to tackling these health crises. In the clinic, Rebecca Awan watches her nine-month-old daughter Sarah, who is suffering from constant fever and remains underweight.
Nutritional assistant Peter Aturjong highlighted the challenges during peak seasons, indicating that the clinic sees over twenty malnourished children daily. He noted the importance of education surrounding the specialized peanut-based paste, “Plumpy’Nut®”, which must be reserved solely for the children’s treatment. He reiterated, “We try to counsel the mother and tell her that this is a medicine, it is something designed for the children.”
Isaac Garang, who works for Concern Worldwide, dedicates extensive hours to the clinic, stating, “I’m tired but we are helping our community, and this is what’s important.” His commitment signifies the critical nature of healthcare in this region, emphasizing the collective effort needed to address malnutrition effectively.
The health crisis in South Sudan, characterized by widespread malnutrition affecting two million children, underscores the urgent need for support and resources. Stories from mothers like Mary and Abuk highlight the dire circumstances faced by families, while dedicated staff in clinics work tirelessly under challenging conditions. The commitment of healthcare professionals reflects the community’s resilience despite the ongoing conflict and resource shortages, signaling that comprehensive interventions are essential for recovery.
Original Source: www.irishexaminer.com
