South Sudan has signed a new three-year health partnership with the United States valued at more than $166 million, in a move aimed at strengthening the country’s healthcare system and improving its capacity to respond to infectious diseases and public health emergencies.
The agreement, signed on June 25, brings together more than $146 million in planned U.S. support alongside nearly $20 million in funding from the South Sudanese government. The joint investment will focus on improving healthcare delivery, disease surveillance, HIV/AIDS programs, outbreak preparedness, and the long-term resilience of the country’s health system.
Under the partnership, South Sudan has committed to increasing its own investment in healthcare by funding essential services, paying health workers, maintaining critical infrastructure such as vaccine cold-chain systems, and strengthening accountability within the health sector. The agreement also introduces measurable targets to ensure both countries monitor progress throughout the three-year period.
The partnership comes at a crucial time as countries across East and Central Africa continue to strengthen preparedness against regional Ebola outbreaks and other emerging infectious diseases. Health offi cials say improving early detection, rapid response, and cross-border coordination will be key to preventing future health crises.
For South Sudan, where access to quality healthcare remains a signifi cant challenge, the agreement is expected to enhance medical services, expand support for vulnerable communities, and improve the country’s ability to respond to future outbreaks.
Public health experts have welcomed the initiative, noting that sustained investment in local health systems is essential for improving health outcomes and reducing dependence on emergency humanitarian interventions.
The new partnership refl ects a broader commitment to strengthening South Sudan’s healthcare sector while building a more resilient system capable of protecting millions of people against current and future public health threats.