MALAKAL, Upper Nile State (Eye Radio) – Pregnant women continue to receive essential maternal health services at the International Organization for Migration (IOM) clinic inside the Protection of Civilians (PoC) site in Malakal, despite high patient demand and limited resources.

Some women noted that occasional challenges in accessing certain medications or services may occur, but the clinic continues to provide antenatal care and referrals as needed.

“My name is Abla Lazem, and I live here at this civilian protection site. I’m nine months pregnant and attend monthly checkups. While there are occasional delays in accessing some medications locally, the clinic continues to provide essential antenatal care and support for referrals,” stated Lazem.

“My name is Najuma James. I am four months pregnant, and this is my first visit to the center. While some medications may need to be sourced externally at times, the staff provide dedicated care and I will continue to receive support here throughout my pregnancy,” said Najuma.

“I am seven months pregnant and have been receiving care at this clinic since the first month. While the clinic operates with a small team relative to demand, the staff provide essential care, assisting with deliveries and maternal health services,” stated Odhak.

The clinic staff are committed to supporting both mothers and children and ensure that services continue while managing a high patient load,” added Odhak.

Health workers in the PoC clinics manage a significant patient load, providing maternal, reproductive, and general health services to the community.

Gloria Eno Alex, a nurse at the IOM clinic, manages an average of 25 pregnant women daily, providing antenatal services, counseling, and HIV and syphilis testing.

She noted that essential medications and family planning commodities are provided, and the clinic manages occasional restocking delays to ensure continued service delivery.

“Since I joined, I have appreciated the environment and the services provided. The team works hard to ensure that all mothers receive care, despite high patient numbers,” said Gloria.

Despite high demand and limited resources, IOM staff continue to provide life-saving maternal and reproductive health care to women in the Malakal PoC site, demonstrating dedication and commitment to community health.