Strike action by doctors, that would be unprecedented in many western health care systems, is being carried out in sheer frustration at medicine shortages, lack of funding, insecurity and what has been described as an “impending health disaster”?
The number of COVID-19 cases combined with existing challenges on the Sudanese health care system has gone largely unreported as the world’s attention has focussed on the Indian sub-continent in recent weeks.
The Sudanese Ministry of Health admits that as the country’s third COVID-19 wave spreads through the country, there is a lack of oxygen and hospital beds. At the same time stocks of medicines required for the treatment of cancer, kidney diseases, heart problems, and diabetes are almost exhausted.
The doctors’ association of Sudan claims that the Central Bank of Sudan has not provided any funds for the import of medicines since the beginning of 2021, out of a total of €200 million of allocated funding.
Advocacy Action: Sudan is not alone in facing these challenges. Could your country give more in targeted medical aid to areas facing these issues?