Embassy of Japan Hands Over Renovated Mangala Primary Health Care Facility

By Denilson Denike

In a momentous event highlighting progress in gender-responsive healthcare services amidst humanitarian challenges, the Embassy of Japan handed over a renovated health facility to authorities in Mangala on Thursday. Equipped with essential amenities and powered by solar energy, the facility aims to strengthen COVID-19 prevention measures and address gender-based violence within vulnerable communities.

The handover ceremony of the Mangala Primary Healthcare Center welcomed esteemed dignitaries, including Wanatabe Tomoko, the Deputy Chief of Mission from the Embassy of Japan, Nejua Juma Mursal, the Minister of Health for Central Equatoria, and Rukaya Mohammed, the Deputy of UN Women. Esther Kaku Jacob, a representative from women’s groups in Mangala, Luberi Mathew, the Deputy Director of Primary Health Care in Central Equatoria State, and William Deng, the Project Implementing Partner, also attended the occasion.

“I am delighted to be here today. A year ago, I had the privilege of participating in the ‘Dignity Kit Distribution’ at IDP Camp 3. This initiative is part of a broader project aimed at establishing a supportive environment for women IDPs and host communities, facilitating the adoption of gender-responsive health services to curb the further spread of COVID-19 in a humanitarian context. I am pleased to return for another handover ceremony organized by UN Women,” expressed Deputy Chief of Mission Wanatabe Tomoko from the Embassy of Japan.

“In the context of this project, I hope that IDPs and members of the host community have enhanced their understanding of COVID-19 and gender-based violence (GBV). This encompasses knowledge about COVID-19 transmission and prevention, incorporating various preventive measures such as handwashing, the use of hand sanitizers, and face masks, among others,” Wanatabe added.

“I have just visited the newly renovated Mangala PHCC facility. The upgrades include a new roof, a ramp for disabled access, installed power for lighting, and the partitioning of some rooms. These improvements have led to an increased demand for services such as COVID-19 testing and vaccination, as well as improved hygiene standards. Importantly, these renovations have made the facility more accessible for women and girls using wheelchairs, with sufficient rooms now available for their use. Additionally, the installation of solar power has enhanced protection against gender-based violence (GBV), particularly for women and girls requiring emergency