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Juba – Al-Wadi Newspaper
The Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Head of the Services Cluster, Josephine Lagu Yanga, affirmed that cancer is a deeply personal and painful issue for her, noting that she lost three of her siblings to the disease. She said this personal experience motivated her to respond to the invitation and participate in the launch ceremony of the South Sudan Cancer Control Network, in support of efforts aimed at alleviating the suffering of patients.
In her remarks at the event, Lagu stated that cancer does not discriminate by age, country, or social status, and that it affects everyone without exception. She described the celebration of World Cancer Day and the launch of the network as a positive and important step toward coordinating national efforts to combat this deadly disease and raising awareness of its risks.
The Vice President praised the efforts of the South Sudan Cancer Network and its role in highlighting one of the most serious health challenges facing the country, emphasizing that this initiative will contribute to improving the national response to the disease.
For its part, the South Sudan Cancer Network stressed that combating cancer requires the combined efforts of all stakeholders, noting that the disease affects thousands of people annually in the country and that the mortality rate associated with it reaches approximately 80%. Speakers at the launch ceremony explained that the network aims to strengthen efforts in prevention, awareness, early detection, treatment, and support for health research.
Josephine Lagu called for an increase in the health sector budget, stressing that cancer is one of the greatest health challenges in South Sudan and that health must be a national priority. She urged that at least 15% of the national budget be allocated to the health sector.
Lagu announced the government’s readiness to work with the Cancer Network and relevant institutions to improve healthcare services, and revealed that the Joseph Lagu Foundation has joined the network to contribute to efforts to combat the disease.
The Vice President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the national health system and improving the quality of services provided to patients, emphasizing that achieving this requires cooperation among the government, health organizations, academic institutions, and civil society.
At the conclusion of the event, Josephine Lagu Yanga officially announced the launch of the South Sudan Cancer Network, describing it as a step aimed at reducing mortality rates and improving the quality of life for patients. She emphasized that cancer is treatable and that the government is committed to making every possible effort to save lives and build a healthier and more stable South Sudan.
