The Western Equatoria State government and the UN on Tuesday officially opened two maternity health facilities that were constructed by UNOPs in the Madebe and Manikakara areas in Ibba County.
Speaking during the ceremony in Ibba, UNOPS Senior Project Manager John Nyirenda said the construction was a response to concerns raised by the local community who reported that they did not have proper maternity health facilities.
“I heard from the in charge of the health facility that before this the construction of the maternity unit that women were delivering in very bad places and I hope that this facility will be put to good use for the people of Madebe and Manikakara in Ibba,” he said. “Of course, we do not have all equipment inside there but I am requesting other partners who are here to support the people of Ibba and Western Equatoria so they can receive proper health services.”
“As UNOPS alone, we cannot do it alone and provide full packages because we rely on partners, the government, and other NGOs to complement what has been done,” Nyirenda added.
He appreciated the government for trusting his organization to implement the project.
Meanwhile, Western Equatoria State Governor Alfred Futuyo Karaba appreciated UNOPS for completing the project and urged the community to take care of the facility.
“To all of you the citizens here, we now have to provide what is missing in this health facility,” he said. “Do something for the future because what we like is only help and gifts, we like free things. When are we going to give to other people?”
For his part, State Health Minister Jamed Abdallah Aron said his ministry will work hard to provide the missing equipment to ensure the facilities offer full services.
“The health ministry and the county have roles in supporting the health facilities because the government has different levels,” he said. “So, dear commissioner, with the little power you have, you need to support and make sure this place is protected and cleaned.”
Margrer Ayati, the leader of the women in Manikakara, said that expectant mothers will now deliver in a safe environment.
“We are happy for the building they have constructed because we used to deliver on leaves,” she said. “What is missing now are the beds.”
UNOPs constructed the facilities with support from the World Bank Group.