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Juba – Al-Wadi Newspaper
The People’s Republic of China has once again reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to strengthening comprehensive cooperation with the African continent—and particularly with South Sudan—across various sectors, with health taking center stage. The announcement came during an official ceremony held in Juba on Tuesday to mark the structural completion of Phase II of the modernization and expansion project at Juba Teaching Hospital—one of the most prominent Chinese-supported development projects in the country.
Speaking at the event, Chinese Ambassador to South Sudan, Ma Qiang, stated that the Juba Teaching Hospital project is a vivid embodiment of the deep friendship between China and South Sudan, as well as a strategic partnership under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
“Modernizing healthcare infrastructure in South Sudan is not merely a developmental initiative,” Ambassador Ma said, “but also a practical implementation of the outcomes of the China-Africa Cooperation Forum. China remains committed to supporting health development in Africa, reflecting President Xi Jinping’s vision of building a global community with a shared future.”
He pointed out that during the 2024 Beijing Summit of FOCAC, President Xi Jinping announced ten partnership initiatives aimed at modernizing Africa over a three-year period, with health cooperation identified as a top priority. Ambassador Ma emphasized that China-South Sudan cooperation continues to maintain strong momentum, despite regional and global challenges.
Regarding the current hospital project, Ambassador Ma explained that once completed, the facility will be equipped with advanced medical equipment and a qualified professional team. It will offer high-quality medical services and play an active role in medical training and knowledge exchange, thus enhancing South Sudan’s own healthcare capabilities.
He further noted that the integration of the Global Development Initiative (GDI) with Africa’s Agenda 2063 has created unprecedented opportunities for China-Africa cooperation. He expressed hope that the completed hospital would become a symbolic landmark of China–South Sudan friendly cooperation.
Health Minister: Chinese Partnership Driving Health Transformation in South Sudan
South Sudan’s Minister of Health, Sarah Cleto Rial, expressed her deep appreciation for China’s ongoing support, praising the “strong and distinguished” relationship between the two countries—particularly in the field of health. She described China as “a trusted partner that has stood with us for decades.”
The minister highlighted China’s contributions not only in Juba but across the states. Reflecting on her previous role as Governor of Western Bahr el Ghazal, she recalled China’s reconstruction of the Clement Mboro Bridge in Wau. She also pointed out that Chinese doctors have been providing medical support in Juba since the early 1970s.
“This project is not just about erecting a building,” she said. “It is a qualitative leap toward a more efficient and sustainable national health system. We are fully ready to collaborate with our Chinese partners and all stakeholders to achieve our national health goals.”
Project Nearing Completion
The second phase of the Juba Teaching Hospital expansion and modernization project was officially launched on July 14, 2024, by former Vice President for the Service Cluster, Hussein Abdelbagi Akol. According to engineers at the site, construction is progressing ahead of schedule, raising hopes for the hospital’s early operation.
Minister Cleto extended her gratitude to China State Construction Engineering Corporation for adhering to the timeline despite numerous challenges. “It’s been less than a year since this project began, and the building is almost complete,” she said. “On my next visit, I look forward to discussing hospital equipment needs, operational requirements, and how we maintain sanitation and the surrounding environment.”
A Shared Future
In conclusion, Ambassador Ma Qiang expressed optimism about the future of China-Africa cooperation, stating:
“Let us move forward hand-in-hand and shoulder-to-shoulder to build a bright future for China–South Sudan friendly cooperation.”
Supported both technically and financially by China, the Juba Teaching Hospital project serves as a tangible model of South-South cooperation. It sets a precedent for strengthening South Sudan’s healthcare system and improving medical services—supporting the nation’s vision for sustainable and inclusive development over the coming decade.
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