Canadian Ambassador to South Sudan, Douglas Scott Proudfoot has announced additional CAD $4.5 million to support health in South Sudan.
“Canada’s engagement in the health sector in South Sudan aims to ensure that the South Sudanese people, particularly women and girls, can exercise their right to quality healthcare. To achieve this, Canada is supporting the strengthening of South Sudan’s public health system to deliver high quality, gender-sensitive health services and help improve health behaviours and practices that are supportive of women’s autonomy and decision-making,” a press statement seen by Abyei FM on Friday says.
The aid is a contribution to support South Sudan National COVID-19 response plan and the multi-donor Health Pooled Fund’s ongoing delivery of basic health and nutrition services.
“With the added challenge of COVID-19, Canada has come together with other development partners to provide additional urgent support in the fight against this global pandemic and ensure the continued delivery of vital primary health services across South Sudan,” it says.
This additional funding brings Canada’s total contribution to the Health Pooled Fund to CAD $54.5 million.
Ambassador Scott also announced the increase in Canada’s funding for strengthening midwifery services II project implemented by UNFPA from CAD $50 million to CAD $54.2 million.
The project will ensure continued training of health professionals and that nurses and midwives are able to save the lives of mothers and babies in South Sudan.