Members of the Revitalized Transitional National Legislative Assembly have pledged to pass the Nursing and Midwifery Bill once it reaches the parliament, a legislative move poised to transform maternal health care in South Sudan.

The session organized by the Parliamentary Network on Population and Development (PNPD), in collaboration with the South Sudan Nurses and Midwives Association (SSNAMA), the Association of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians of South Sudan (AGOSS), with support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) the deliberations were passionate about the welfare of every South Sudanese regardless of political affiliation.

In his opening remarks, the Secretary General of the PNPD, Hon. Lumori Simon, emphasized the critical need for legislative support to safeguard the lives of mothers and infants. The same call was re-echoed by the President of SSNAMA, saying the bill, once passed has  potential positive impact on healthcare delivery.

Dr. Ademola Olajide, UNFPA Country Representative highlighted the broader implications of the bill, aligning it with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all. His words resonated deeply, reminding everyone that behind every statistic is a human life, a family forever changed by the loss of a mother,  a child or both.

“This Bill is more than just legislation. It is a human rights issue.”

Hon. Ruben Arol, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs added a layer of gravitas to the proceedings, ensuring that the dialogue was not just symbolic but a prelude to tangible action. He stated his Ministry’s support for the Bill and expected it to be revised quickly by the Ministry of Health and then tabled to the Council of Ministers and the National Assembly.

“I want to assure you all that my ministry and I are fully with you to deliver on this legislation - The Nurses and Midwifery Bill 2024” - Hon. Ruben Arol

A Q&A session led by Hon. Taban, generated candid discussions, reflecting a shared commitment to overcoming the challenges that have long plagued the nation’s healthcare system, prompting the Chairperson of the PNPD Hon. Majur Babur, to call for the swift passage and implementation of the Nursing and Midwifery Bill once it is tabled in the Parliament.

The legislative session on the Nursing and Midwifery Bill was more than just a meeting; it was a testament to the power of collaboration and advocacy. It highlighted the crucial role of parliamentarians in driving policy changes that can save lives. Most importantly, it gave voice to the silent cries of mothers who have lost their lives and to those who continue to fight for a safer, healthier future for their children.

As the bill moves closer to becoming law, the hope is that South Sudan will see a drastic improvement in maternal health outcomes, bringing the nation one step closer to achieving its health and development goals. This session, infused with passion and purpose, marks the beginning of a new chapter in South Sudan’s journey towards ensuring every mother and child has a chance at a healthy life with quality nursing and midwifery services at the forefront.

South Sudan’s maternal health statistics paint a grim picture. With 1,223 women dying per 100,000 live births, the country bears one of the highest maternal mortality ratios  globally. This stark reality underscores the urgency for systemic change. The Nursing and Midwifery Bill represents a beacon of hope, promising to establish a robust regulatory framework for the practice of nurses and midwives, thereby enhancing the quality and availability of maternal and neonatal health services.