Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has raised the alarm over the deteriorating state of South Sudan’s healthcare system, warning that it is on the verge of collapse due to escalating violence and widespread displacement.
Speaking on Thursday, MSF officials said a surge in attacks on medical facilities, staff, and civilians is overwhelming already under-resourced health services. The violence, driven by renewed clashes between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar, has intensified across several regions.
While much of the international focus has been on Upper Nile State, MSF reports that fighting is also spreading through Jonglei, Unity, and Western Central Equatoria states. “We are dealing with a major conflict unfolding on multiple fronts,” said Bakri Abubakr, MSF operations manager.
The ongoing violence has forced tens of thousands from their homes. According to MSF, at least 60,000 people have been displaced in Upper Nile State and another 50,000 in Jonglei, leaving many villages deserted and health facilities abandoned.
Abubakr warned that South Sudan’s health system is nearing collapse. “Even before this escalation, only half of the country’s medical facilities were functioning,” he said. Around 80% of healthcare funding in South Sudan comes from international donors, while the national government contributes just over 1%.
MSF also reported a troubling increase in attacks on healthcare infrastructure. Abdalla Hussein of MSF highlighted incidents of looting, assaults on medical boats on the White Nile, and repeated violence against remote health posts. The United Nations has documented eight such attacks this year, though MSF suspects the real number is higher.
Zakariya Mwatia, MSF’s head of mission, said medical teams in Malakal are seeing rising numbers of wounded arriving after long treks through dangerous terrain. “Many are beyond saving,” he said, warning, “We are yet to see the worst.”