South Sudanese refugees in Sudan’s White Nile State refugee camps have decried poor health services in the camps.
The refugees complained that the medical facilities in the camps lack adequate medical personnel and supplies, a situation that has increased deaths and malnutrition among children.
Charles Ajak, a refugee at the Khor Worol refugee camp, told Radio Tamazuj that the Khor Worol Hospital is overcrowded with patients, many of whom may not receive treatment.
“The hospital receives support from international organizations, but it is not managed well,” he said.
Ajak warns that without intervention, the situation could worsen.
Ali Alala, the Khor Worol camp leader, confirmed the deteriorating health conditions at the hospital, adding that there is only one doctor and two nurses.
“Patients are suffering due to the shortage of medicines, while the hospital needs maintenance,” he said.
For his part, a medical officer in the health facility at the Al Kashafa refugee camp Dr. Chanuang Chol pointed out that there are high rates of malnutrition among children.
He told Radio Tamazuj that many children have died in the camps due allegedly due to poor health services after the international humanitarian medical non-governmental organization, Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) withdrew from the area.
Chol explained that before it withdrew, MSF provided meals for children suffering from malnutrition. He added that the situation is exacerbated by the reduction of monthly food rations for refugees.