Meet Dr. Angelo Goup Thon Kouch, a medical epidemiologist, public health specialist and infectious disease responder. He serves as the Director of Health Security, SURGE Capacity Development and One Health at the Ministry of Health in the Republic of South Sudan.
Dr. Kouch shares his story of our rapid outbreak financing partnership in South Sudan.
“South Sudan is currently facing multiple public health challenges, including outbreaks of cholera, mpox, malaria, anthrax, Rift Valley fever and hepatitis E. Natural disasters, such as severe flooding, further strain our health system, while political instability makes it even more difficult to respond effectively. The recent pause in U.S. government funding has created significant gaps, particularly in rapid outbreak response, health security and One Health activities. Essential health services, including HIV/AIDS programs, malaria and tuberculosis treatment and antenatal care, have also been affected.
“Despite these challenges, we are actively working with partners like the World Bank, World Health Organization and Resolve to Save Lives (RTSL) to bridge funding gaps and strengthen health service delivery. A recent partnership with RTSL and UNKEA has enabled rapid outbreak investigations and response efforts across multiple states, including cholera and anthrax outbreaks. With support from RTSL, we have saved over 1,600 lives through case management, infection prevention, vaccination and psychosocial support. These collaborations are crucial in safeguarding public health in South Sudan, and we’re grateful to RTSL, the 7-1-7 Alliance and their donors for supporting us.”