The newly appointed Minister of Health, Ms. Sarah Kileto Real, took the constitutional oath on Wednesday before the President of the Republic, H.E. Salva Kiir Mayardit, in an official ceremony held at the presidential palace in the capital, Juba.
During the event, President Kiir directed Minister Kileto to address the structural challenges hindering the health sector, emphasizing the urgent need for reforms to improve service efficiency and ensure equitable and effective healthcare for citizens. He described her appointment as “merit-based,” urging her to adopt a transparent and accountable approach focused on results-driven performance to build a robust national health system that meets the people’s aspirations. He also called on citizens to overcome differences and work together for a unified and peaceful nation.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by representatives of the opposition Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO) – Stephen Par Kuol faction, who described the Health Ministry as a “life-or-death arena” requiring decisive leadership. They praised the selection of Minister Kileto, viewing her appointment as critical to the country’s health sector reform process.
For her part, Sarah Kileto expressed gratitude to the President for the trust placed in her, pledging to work diligently to develop the health system, enhance transparency and accountability within the ministry, and deliver tangible results that positively impact citizens’ lives across South Sudan.
Kileto’s appointment is seen as a fresh start in the government’s efforts to build a sustainable and inclusive health sector, ensuring all citizens have access to quality and equitable healthcare services.
