Trade Minister Consults Stakeholders on Establishing Affordable Cancer Treatment Centers
By Kidega
Minister of Trade and Industry, Atong Kuol Manyang, met with leaders from the South Sudan Cancer Association Network (SSCAN) and the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) to discuss the creation of affordable domestic cancer treatment centers. The meeting highlighted the urgent need to improve local healthcare infrastructure, as many South Sudanese currently travel abroad for costly cancer treatments.
Preparations are underway to launch specialized cancer treatment centers on February 4, 2026, under the Ministry of Health. Hon. Manyang called cancer a “cross-cutting concern” affecting public health and emphasized the Ministry’s role in promoting food safety and regulating imported products through the South Sudan National Bureau of Standards (SSNBS).
She pledged full support for the initiative, noting that the Ministry of Trade and Industry will advocate for funding, resources, and international partnerships to make these centers accessible and sustainable. “The country is ours, and our health is our collective responsibility,” she said.
This initiative reflects a strong alignment between trade policy and public health. By linking cancer prevention to food safety and product standards, the government is addressing both treatment and risk reduction. The involvement of multiple ministries and civil society organizations indicates a collaborative approach, which is crucial for sustainable healthcare improvements in South Sudan.
