Benjamin Ajuong Machiek
Access to clean water, proper waste disposal, safe hygiene practices, and adequate healthcare facilities form the backbone of any community’s well-being.
However, in many parts of Juba, particularly in areas like Manatgaan Camp, parts of Hai Referendum, Gudelle, and Cameroon, maintaining public health and sanitation has become increasingly difficult. The lack of basic infrastructure, poor waste management, and limited government oversight have contributed to serious public health challenges that require urgent intervention.
The State of Public Health and Sanitation in Juba
Juba, the capital of South Sudan, is a rapidly growing city. As people from across the country continue to move into the city in search of safety, better opportunities, and services, informal settlements and camps have mushroomed across its landscape. While this urban growth reflects the resilience and hopes of the population, it also exposes deep gaps in the city’s infrastructure—especially in sanitation and healthcare.
In areas like Manatgaan Camp, which hosts internally displaced persons (IDPs), sanitation facilities are grossly inadequate. Many residents lack access to latrines, and open defecation remains common due to the absence of toilets. Waste disposal systems are either non-existent or poorly maintained. With stagnant water and uncollected garbage, the risk of disease outbreaks—such as cholera, typhoid, and malaria—remains dangerously high.
Similarly, parts of Hai Referendum, Gudelle, and Cameroon neighborhoods face serious sanitation problems. Overflowing septic tanks, blocked drainage systems, and unmanaged garbage heaps are common sights. These environmental hazards not only make daily living uncomfortable but also threaten the health of thousands of residents, especially children and the elderly.
Factors Behind the Sanitation Crisis
Several factors have contributed to the poor state of public health and sanitation in these areas. First, there is a lack of proper urban planning. Many of these neighborhoods have developed informally, without the input of engineers, health experts, or city authorities. As a result, there are no structured systems for waste collection, sewage, or clean water supply.
Second, limited government involvement and oversight has left communities to fend for themselves. While international organizations and NGOs have provided temporary solutions such as boreholes or mobile toilets, these efforts often lack sustainability and coordination with national policies.
Third, poverty and unemployment play a major role. Most residents in these areas cannot afford private waste collection or healthcare services. Without financial capacity, even basic improvements like constructing a pit latrine or buying water purification tablets become luxuries.
Lastly, low awareness and education levels around hygiene and sanitation contribute to the problem. In some communities, residents are not informed about safe waste disposal methods, the importance of handwashing, or how to prevent waterborne diseases. This knowledge gap deepens the public health crisis and makes it harder for interventions to succeed.
The Role of Government in Solving the Crisis
The gravity of the situation calls for serious government involvement. It is no longer enough to leave sanitation and public health in the hands of NGOs and community volunteers. The government must treat this issue as a national priority—because the health of the people directly affects the strength of the nation.
Firstly, public investment in infrastructure is needed. This includes constructing public toilets, drainage systems, waste disposal sites, and ensuring regular garbage collection. In camps like Manatgaan, mobile toilets and temporary solutions should be replaced with permanent sanitation infrastructure.
Secondly, healthcare services must be expanded into these underserved areas. Mobile clinics, vaccination programs, and health education campaigns can make a significant difference. These efforts should be coordinated with local leaders to ensure cultural sensitivity and community participation.
Thirdly, the government should launch public awareness campaigns focusing on hygiene, sanitation, and disease prevention. Schools, churches, and community centers can be used as platforms to spread messages about cleanliness, water safety, and the dangers of open defecation.
Moreover, public-private partnerships can be encouraged to improve waste management. Local businesses can be engaged in garbage collection and recycling initiatives, creating jobs while cleaning up the city.
Finally, there is a need for policy reform and enforcement. Clear regulations on sanitation standards must be established and enforced. Landlords and property developers must be held accountable for providing basic facilities in rental properties.
All in all, the public health and sanitation crisis in areas like Manatgaan Camp, Hai Referendum, Gudelle, and Cameroon should not be ignored. It is a reflection of broader systemic issues, but also an opportunity for change. If the government steps in with firm policies, sufficient funding, and genuine community engagement, the situation can be turned around. A healthy population is the foundation of a strong nation—and it is time for South Sudan to prioritize the well-being of all its people, regardless of where they live.