WESTERN BAHR-EL-GHAZAL - Wau Central Prison, in the heart of Western Bahr-El-Ghazal State, was initially designed to house about 200 inmates. However, it is currently overwhelmed with over 800 detainees, leading to dire health concerns, including a troubling outbreak of tuberculosis affecting 16 inmates who are undergoing treatment.

To help address this critical situation, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has provided four prefabricated containers to the detention facility to serve as essential isolation centers for inmates battling tuberculosis, significantly improving their access to care and reducing the risk of the disease.

“The facility is currently housing approximately 782 inmates, and with 16 individuals infected, we must establish an isolation center immediately to contain the spread,” declared Major General Mariec Citak Mawau, the Director of Prison Services in the state.

“The state ministry of health is actively supporting us by providing treatment for inmates infected with tuberculosis and supplying essential medicines for other illnesses such as malaria, diarrhea, and cough.”

Henry Gabriel Sasa, Director of Primary Health Care, highlighted ongoing preventive measures in the penitentiary.

“Proactive strategies include distributing face masks, constructing fencing around isolation containers, and increasing awareness among inmates. Isolating infected individuals allows healthcare personnel to provide focused treatment, helping protect the health of others,” he said.

Improving hygiene and sanitation practices is essential to preventing further infections and ensuring a safer, healthier environment for all inmates.

The UN Peacekeeping mission has also supported the government’s efforts to address overcrowding, including the construction of Thoro-Majak Prison in Marial-bai.

Joseph Banda, a Corrections Officer with UNMISS Wau Field Office, underscored the critical partnership between the mission and government in protecting civilians and improving the justice system.