Author: Lasuba Memo | Published: 7 minutes ago
Photo|Courtesy of Office of the President
In a significant move to strengthen South Sudan’s healthcare system, the National Council of Ministers has approved the Nurses and Midwives Bill 2025 during its regular Friday session chaired by President Salva Kiir Mayardit. The bill, which received amendments during deliberations, represents a crucial step toward professionalizing the country’s healthcare workforce.
Government officials emphasized that this legislation will establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for nursing and midwifery professions, with particular focus on improving maternal healthcare outcomes. South Sudan continues to face one of the world’s highest maternal mortality rates, making this legislative action particularly timely and critical for national development.
The bill’s presentation to the Council of Ministers was led by Michael Makuei Lueth, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, who outlined its significance in creating structured professional standards and accountability mechanisms. This legal framework will define educational requirements, licensing procedures, scope of practice, and ethical guidelines for nurses and midwives—essential components for building a competent and reliable healthcare workforce.
Following extensive discussions, Information Minister Ateny Wek Ateny confirmed the bill received unanimous approval from cabinet members. “The Nursing and Midwifery Bill represents more than just legislative progress—it’s a fundamental building block for transforming healthcare delivery and safeguarding the well-being of mothers and children across South Sudan,” officials stated.
The approved legislation now advances to the National Legislative Assembly for further debate and final ratification. This parliamentary process will provide opportunity for additional stakeholder input and technical refinement before the bill becomes law.
Healthcare experts note that professional regulation of nursing and midwifery is particularly vital in South Sudan’s context, where qualified healthcare workers are often in short supply, especially in rural areas. The establishment of clear professional standards is expected to improve both the quality of care and public confidence in the healthcare system, while potentially attracting more young people to pursue careers in these critical professions.