Akobo Health Program

Sudan

Presbyterian Health Mission Work started in southern Sudan in 1904. The last hospital and a small community health program functioned until 1984 when UP(USA) Co-worker Dr. Robert Dunlop was forced to leave by the civil war which still racks this nation. Shortly thereafter the hospital was closed entirely and all work ceased. Six years later the many abandoned buildings of the project have fallen into severe disrepair. Only roofless shells of cracked and crumbling walls remain.

In February 1992, our partner church, The Presbyterian Church of Sudan (PCOS) decided to move its headquarters to Akobo. It hopes to eventually rebuild a clinic there as a referral center for a large primary health care project. Initially it would appear most likely that the dispensary will be housed in tents. Some trained Sudanese personnel are available.

Working through the Association of Christian Resource Organizations Serving Sudan (ACROSS), the PC(USA) will assist the church in re-starting this greatly needed health care project with strong emphasis on primary health care to the surrounding communities. Motor boats, funded by PC(USA), are used to promote community health down the Sobot River.

In May 1992, ACROSS introduced a community health programme in the Akobo district. The activities included training in community based health care and supply management. There will be an ongoing program of training for health workers for the outstations. A PCIS Medical Committee was formed at Akobo, and it is active in promoting preventative and curative care in the area.

With the war there has been a breakdown of basic transportation, communication, and monetary infrastructures along with a critical shortage of food, water and clothing.

The PC(USA) supports the Akobo Health Program through Extra Commitment Opportunity Funds Account # 862759.

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