By Ijoo Bosco
A 30-year-old woman, identified only as Scovia, has died from severe burns sustained after setting herself on fire near Aru Junction along the Juba-Nimule highway last week.
The deceased was receiving treatment at the Magwi Primary Health Care Centre at the time of her passing.
Initial reports placed the incident in Agoro Payam of Magwi County, Eastern Equatoria State but the acting head chief, Mr. Okot Sonic Romeo, clarified that Scovia was a resident of Aru Junction and had been married there for a long time.
According to Scovia’s mother, the incident occurred at a charcoal burning site near Aru Junction.
The cause of Scovia’s actions remains unclear, although her mother reported that she poured gasoline on herself and set herself alight in an apparent attempt to take her own life.
Scovia reportedly had a history of mental health issues that occasionally required her to be restrained for her safety.
Tragically, Scovia succumbed to her injuries on Tuesday night.
Speaking to Voice of Freedom in an interview the medical worker, Dr. Joseph Oryema who treated Scovia revealed that she suffered extensive burns covering approximately 80% of her body, including severe damage to her skin, a vital organ for regulating body temperature.
“Despite our efforts, Scovia’s burns were too severe, and she ultimately succumbed to respiratory failure caused by damage to her trachea, which is essential for air intake,” explained Dr. Joseph.
The doctor also expressed concern about the increasing number of gender-based violence (GBV) cases in the community, which he cited have resulted in several incidents of violence and self-harm.
He urged authorities, community leaders, and NGOs to intervene by providing training and support programs to address these issues and prevent future tragedies.
“GBV has claimed lives and left others suffering,” Dr. Joseph stated. “We must find better ways to resolve conflicts and prevent such desperate acts. Suicide is never the answer.”