US ambassador stresses public finance management in talks with VP Abdelbagi

The United States Ambassador to South Sudan, Michael J. Adler, has stressed the need for effective public finance management and the proper use of public revenue to improve healthcare, education, and other basic services.

Ambassador Adler made the remarks after meeting Vice President Hussein Abdelbagi Akol in Juba to discuss cooperation between South Sudan and the United States, particularly in the health and education sectors.

He said the discussions drew on feedback from the Vice President’s recent tour across the country, during which communities highlighted the need for improved health and education services.

“We talked about the Vice President’s recent trip, where he heard people discuss their needs, especially in the area of health and education. I noted the importance the United States government places on the appropriate use of public revenue to pay for basic services and to pay for salaries, “Ambassador Adler said.

The U.S. envoy said the meeting also reviewed the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding on Health between the United States and the Transitional Government of National Unity.

“We discussed the recent Memorandum of Understanding on Health, which we’ve signed with the transitional government, and the importance of the transitional government’s own financial contributions to the success of this agreement,” he said.

Ambassador Adler reaffirmed Washington’s continued support for South Sudan, saying lasting peace and stability are essential to sustainable development and improved public service delivery.

A representative from the Office of the Vice President welcomed the continued partnership, saying the discussions reflected a shared commitment to strengthening healthcare, education, and other essential services for the people.