We have sad news from Juba that robbers broke into Kimu Health Center on the night of 19 October and took some items including the solar panels donated to the health centre by Women’s Education Partnership. The robbers came in a group and scared the watchmen who hid in fear of being killed. The robbers were well equipped with all sorts of tools including the ones for dismantling the solar panels from the roof of the building. The case was reported to the police who said that other similar cases of robbery had been reported. Robbery has increased in South Sudan and apparently the stolen goods are not often recovered: indeed sometimes the robbers are security or other armed personnel.
The solar lighting panels used to provide electricity to the health center every day and reduced its electricity costs by 80%. Kimu is now in a very difficult situation as will be using the generator, which needs costly servicing and fuel. Moreover, prices in Juba are skyrocketing due to the devaluation of the South Sudan pound. Mary, a member of the community, said: “We could contribute and purchase new solar panels because this is the only health centre in which we receive treatment, but we are helpless as far as the economic situation in South Sudan is concerned. These robbers are crazy, because this health centre serves all of us, including them”.
The security situation in Juba is such that it is not sensible for WEP simply to replace the panels. But we are looking to make a financial contribution to the center’s increased running costs. Despite all the problems, Kimu and all the health centre staff are committed and continue to provide health services to 80-100 people per day. Please help us to continue providing services with your donation.