AFRICA/SOUTH SUDAN - Security situation worsens due to clashes

Maper (Agenzia Fides) - The intensification of the clashes between the government and the opposition is gradually deteriorating the situation in some of the areas of Unity State on the border with the State of the Lakes, and in particular in Rumbek North County. In a statement sent to Agenzia Fides, the coordinator of Doctors with Africa Cuamm in South Sudan informs: "in agreement with the local authorities, a temporary shift of the international Cuamm staff was carried out from Maper to Rumbek, waiting to see how the situation evolves. From Rumbek we monitor the work of the structures closely and remain operational and continue to ensure, through local staff, assistance to the wounded". Rumbek North County is located in the State of the Lakes and borders with areas of high conflict: Unity State and Jonglei, recently the scene of clashes between rebel groups and SPLA government troops. In an extreme context, where movements are impossible due to impassable roads in the rainy season. Cuamm began working in 2013 to restart seven health facilities that since July 2014 have begun to function and to provide basic health services to the community. Among these structures, the main one is in Maper, and has become operational 24 hours non-stop with outpatient services and admissions. It is able to provide assistance to non-complicated deliveries and carries out prevention, with emphasis on malaria and respiratory infections.
Cuamm staff is also involved in strenghthening the capacity of Community Health Workers on issues of maternal and child health care and the training of traditional midwives on the recognition of the first signs of obstetric emergencies. Last year alone 1,795 prenatal visits were carried out in this area, 7,309 children were vaccinated and 3,618 children were assessed for malnutrition. Currently there are 17 Italian Cuamm operators in South Sudan. (AP) (Agenzia Fides 26/05/2015)