https://www.facebook.com/107938975301944/posts/107941571968351/

Chol Machok Augustine Magak -PublicHealth Advocate, Juba (2025)

31/10/2025

Wël ë kuööc ë käŋ:

1. Na cɔk alɔn cï yen ye këdu ka nyaai.

2. Na cɔk alɔn cï yen ye yic ke luel.

3. Na cɔk alɔn cï yen la cök ka loi.

4. Na cɔk alɔn cï yen path ke muk.

5. Na cɔk alɔn cïn yin ŋɔ̈th ke dhoŋ.

6. Na cɔk alɔn le yïn käŋ ke duk gɛm.

7. Na cɔk alɔn cï yin ye ŋic ke yï jaam path.

Thuɔŋjäŋ

29/10/2025

Does Tonj Deserve to Be Sacrificed? Not by Violence, But Through Justice and Accountability

Over the years, conflicts have afflicted our communities in Greater Tonj with Tonj East occupying the basement of an iceberg of it, with many lives lost, families uprooted, and a lasting fear that has settled over our communities. It is understandable that grief and anger make some to ask whether drastic measures are the only way to stop the violence.

But still, we reject any call for violence. Bombing our towns will only harm innocent families, deepen trauma, and destroy the future we are trying to protect. Justice and security must come through accountable, lawful, and nonviolent action, not more violence. While warning and effective communication lead any decision to be taken, not at nightmare and start bombing.
We must be clear that responding to violence with more violence will only multiply the suffering. Bombing our own towns or communities would not rescue the innocent, it would destroy them.
What we need instead is decisive with effective communication, accountable action that protects civilians and brings criminals to justice.

This means strengthening local protection, demanding effective and transparent law enforcement, documenting abuses, and mobilizing peaceful community pressure on authorities and partners. It means supporting humanitarian aid for displaced families, investing in reconciliation and trauma care, and building local systems that reduce the appeal of violent groups.

We call on community leaders, security services, civil society, and international partners to prioritize:
1. Immediate protection measures for vulnerable communities - This should involve thorough investigations and fair prosecutions of those responsible for violence.
2. Developing programs that prevent recruitment into armed groups, and support for survivors and displaced families.

Our people deserve safety and justice, not revenge. Let our demand be for accountability, not annihilation and severely punishment of wrong doers. That is how we build a future for Greater Tonj and its children.

21/10/2025

Tell all women the “Dos and do nots at Early Pregnancy and Self care

By Chol Machok Augustine Magak -PublicHealth Advocate

Dear Mothers,
Today, I want to share vital information on self-care during early pregnancy. Your health is a personal responsibility, and it’s crucial to understand what you can do to promote a healthy pregnancy.

Understanding “Dos” and “Do-Nots”

“Dos” refer to actions you are encouraged to take or perform, while “Do-Nots” highlight activities to avoid for your safety and that of your baby.

Dos For Mothers
Antenatal Care: It is essential for pregnant women to always go for antenatal care as soon as they know they are planning a pregnancy or are already pregnant. With recommended time for at least three to four visits each month.

Sleep and Rest: Enough sleep is vital for every pregnant woman, who should make sure to sleep for at least 8 to 10 hours each night. This is crucial because it supports both maternal health and fetal development. It helps regulate mood and energy, boosts immunity (which assists the body in repair), supports a healthy immune response important during pregnancy, and promotes memory and concentration which are essential for navigating the emotional and mental changes during this time. Moreover, adequate sleep can help lower stress and fatigue levels. Getting enough rest can reduce the risk of complications like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes and allows the body to recover, providing energy needed for the physical demands of childbirth. Conversely, poor sleep is linked to adverse outcomes such as longer labors and higher cesarean section rates.

Proper hygiene and sanitation – Keeping hands and perineum clean by washing them and maintaining personal hygiene frequently on a daily basis helps protect our women and keeps them safe and healthy.

Physical activities - Physical Activities: Engaging in regular exercise, such as walking for half an hour every day, is crucial for both pregnant women and their growing fetuses. This is very important for our beloved mothers to know and utilize.

Wear Comfortable Clothing: opt for loose-fitting clothes and low-heeled shoes to support comfort and mobility during pregnancy.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Nutritious Foods: Drink plenty of fluids and consume a balanced diet rich in energy-giving, body-building, and protective foods. Proper nutrition is key for both maternal growth and fetal development.

Above all, something I really don’t have an idea is Maintaining Intimacy: Continuing romantic relationships is permissible as long as the couple desires, unless there is bleeding from the woman’s reproductive organ, which can signal contractions, or your water breaks. Maintaining effective communication with one’s partner is essential. In all the articles I have read concerning a healthy pregnancy, sexual engagement between partners is strongly encouraged.

For the Baby: Deep sleep support health growth hormones released, which is essential for the baby's development and helps prevent gestational diabetes as it regulates blood sugar, reduces risk of longer labors and higher rates of cesarean section. Rest on the other hand, promotes and ensures proper baby’s mind and body normal development, minimizes risk of pregnancy complications, lower risk of preeclampsia (high blood pressure) caused by severe sleep deprivation in early pregnancy that may accelerate the risk of preeclampsia.

Do Nots for The Mothers
Lift or Carry Heavy Loads: During pregnancy, especially as the body changes and the belly grows, lifting heavy objects can increase the risk of injury, strain, or complications. It can lead to back pain, muscle strain, or even premature labor in some cases. Therefore, pregnant women should avoid heavy lifting and ask for help when needed.

Drink Alcohol: Consuming alcohol during pregnancy can lead to serious complications, including fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs). These disorders can cause lifelong physical, behavioral, and intellectual disabilities in the child. Alcohol can interfere with the baby's development during critical periods, making it crucial for pregnant women to abstain from alcohol entirely.

Smoke: Smoking during pregnancy is harmful as it restricts oxygen flow to the baby and can lead to low birth weight, preterm birth, and developmental issues. Additionally, exposure to secondhand smoke can also pose risks to the fetus, so it is important for pregnant women to avoid smoking and environments where smoking occurs.

Be Exposed to Chemicals: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as hair dyes, pesticides, and herbicides, particularly during the first trimester when the baby’s organs are developing, can be harmful. Some studies suggest that these chemicals can adversely affect fetal development and might lead to complications. It is advisable for pregnant women to limit their exposure to these substances and consult healthcare providers regarding safe practices.

Summary: These "Do-Not" recommendations focus on minimizing risks that could negatively impact both the pregnant woman and her baby, ultimately promoting a healthier pregnancy and outcome.

20/10/2025

As the opposition leadership emerges in the country, what key areas should their focus be directed towards? Should the SPLM pick it up and relearn from these developments?

Currently, South Sudan is entering a new chapter, with SPLM party showing what is still seen as a glimpse of accountability. Meanwhile, opposition leaders, many of whom were loyal to president Kiir, are forming their envisioned parties. This emergence of new political forces is provoking skepticism among citizens, particularly with Nhial Deng Nhial making headlines in the media.

With South Sudan history and legacy struggles for power, which was compounded by tumultuous path to independence in 2011 after decades of civil war with Sudan. The promise of a new era was quickly overshadowed by internal conflicts, notably the violent power struggle between President Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar in 2013, which led to a brutal civil war. This history adds layers of complexity to current political developments and highlights the need for genuine reform and trust-building measures.

Looking for justice, the First Vice President, Dr. Riek Machar, also known as the leader of SPLM-IO is currently serving trial. This issue has led to a resurgence of armed clashes, resulting in over two million displaced persons and 560,000 Sudanese refugees within South Sudan. About 300,000 people have fled the country for their lives this year, with a total of 2.5 million seeking refuge in neighboring communities, Human Commission. These conflicts have caused significant displacement, fractured the 2018 peace agreement, and have led to unavoidable health crises, instilling fear and uncertainty among the people of South Sudan, who are questioning the country's trajectory.

As well, Human rights are advocating and reminding the country that South Sudan cannot progress without stability and justice, Commissioner Carlos Castresana Fernandez said. This underscores the need for a governmental wake-up call, particularly from those who genuinely carry the people at hearts.

Moreover, bringing you the history of South Sudan and the SPLM could enhance your understanding and specially readers who are unfamiliar with the situation. It is good the country to engage on specific examples of accountability or justice issues, such as documented human rights violations or corruption scandals, to lend more weight to the argument and help citizens comprehend the better steps to reform.

On the other hand, media outlets are disseminating unfiltered content, contributing to a state of confusion among the populace. This highlights the urgent need for a credible information source to guide the public understanding and action. For the country to rebuild trust and halt the ongoing conflicts, it is essential to embrace democracy as the will of the people, pursue sustainable and agreeable political engagement, and urgently address the ailing economy. Otherwise, the young nation is at high risk of spiraling back into a full-scale conflict with unimaginable consequences for its citizens.

In conclusion, a strong call to action is needed for all stakeholders, including the government, opposition, and the international community, to work together towards peace and stability, ensuring a brighter future for the people of South Sudan.

20/10/2025

Social Problems

According to Soerjono Soekanto, social problems are defined as discrepancies between elements of culture or society, which endanger the lives of social groups. These elements exist in every society and can interfere with our social relationships. A social problem is a situation or behavior that has negative impacts on many people. Social Problem arise when a significant number of individuals in society agree that a certain condition threatens their quality of life and their most cherished values. Furthermore, they collectively recognize the need for action to address it, as acknowledged by sociologists.

In this context, sociologists are more interested in examining the social complexities rather than the individual aspects of the problem, since social issues often evoke strong moral reactions from people. Examples of social problems faced by communities worldwide include mental illness, alcoholism and substance abuse, poverty, LGBTQ+ rights, juvenile delinquency, gender-based violence, su***de, unemployment, domestic violence, HIV/AIDS, COVID-19 and other health crises, as well as relationship issues.
Social problems arise from significant discrepancies between societal values and the realities faced by individuals.

Addressing these issues requires authority figures such as; community leaders, religious leaders, social organizations, or government institutions to monitor and respond to societal concerns, as these problems can have severe adverse effects.

It is essential to note that what is considered a social problem in one country or community may be viewed as a normal situation in another. For instance, the examples of social problems mentioned above rarely exist in isolation and are often complex, with ongoing debates about their causes and responsibilities. Additionally, the remedies for these problems are not always agreed upon by society.

The presence of social problems in public life can be understood through various processes and analytical stages. Therefore, what can be done for the public's collective concern in our country? Can we observe our youth struggling due to social issues without intervening? Many young people are significantly affected by social problems, leading to mental health consequences and an increase in su***de rates that have been rising since 2019.

As we have seen, there is a close association between social issues and the occurrence of su***des or mental illnesses. These problems can trigger mental health instabilities, including depression, stress, anthropophobia (fear of people), and schizophrenia—disorders that affect a person's ability to think, feel, and behave appropriately.
Anthropophobia differs from social anxiety disorder; while social anxiety involves a fear of social situations, anthropophobia is a fear of people themselves. This condition can trigger physical symptoms, such as a rapid heartbeat, which often leads young people to avoid seeking help when they need it.

What to Know About Mental Health
Many people experience mental health concerns from time to time. However, a mental health concern escalates into a mental illness when ongoing signs and symptoms cause significant distress and impair your ability to function effectively. Mental illness can lead to misery and problems in daily life, affecting relationships, work, and school performance.
In most cases, symptoms can be managed through a combination of medication and psychotherapy (talk therapy).

Prevention of Social Problems
Before examining how to prevent mental health issues, let's consider how to minimize social problems. Social problems can be addressed through laws, social programs, and policy initiatives. Collaboration between the government and society is essential for achieving maximum results, creating an environment where young people feel motivated to seek help when facing unfavorable circumstances.

Mental Health Mitigation, Control, and Prevention
While there is no definitive way to prevent mental illness, individuals who experience mental health issues can take steps to manage stress, enhance resilience, and boost self-esteem to help control their symptoms. Here are some strategies:

Pay Attention to Warning Signs: Work with your doctor or therapist to identify triggers for your symptoms. Develop a plan for what to do if symptoms return, and involve family or friends in monitoring changes.

Get Routine Medical Care: Don’t skip check-ups or visits to your primary care provider, especially if you're feeling unwell.

Seek Help When Needed: Delaying treatment can complicate mental health conditions. Long-term maintenance treatment can also prevent relapses.

Prioritize Self-Care: Ensure you get sufficient sleep, eat healthily, and engage in regular physical activity.

Explore Medical Treatment as Necessary: Antipsychotic medications are available for certain mental health disorders.

Maintain a Regular Schedule: Establishing a daily routine can improve stability.

Engage in Group Therapy: Interaction with peers in a supportive environment can facilitate healing.

Involve Family Members: Trained professionals can guide family members to support those facing mental health challenges.

Consider Hypnosis: This may be helpful for mild disorders by allowing patients to access repressed memories that could block progress.

Reducing Su***de Cases in Our Country
Effective strategies to decrease su***de rates include:

Screening to Identify At-Risk Individuals: Early detection is vital across all age groups, especially adolescents.

Psychological Treatment: Psychotherapy can provide critical insights into one’s thoughts and behaviors, facilitating problem resolution.

Addressing Gender Issues: Increasing women's representation in decision-making can redistribute care responsibilities and promote gender equality.

Implementing Modern Medical Interventions: Since su***de is often associated with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, effective medical treatment is crucial.

Establishing a Mental Health Legislation Act: This framework should govern mental health assessment, treatment, and the rights of individuals with mental health issues, providing a source of guidance and support.

Seeking Societal Support: Community perceptions of individuals struggling with mental health problems can greatly influence recovery outcomes.

Religious Perspectives: Various religions, including Christianity and Islam, view su***de as a moral sin, which may protect some individuals from considering self-harm.

20/10/2025

The kind of water the citizens are getting from the Ethiopian and foreign water tankers.

As many are wondering why citizens are having many preventable diseases, the case is simple. We don't have clean and safe drinking water in our country. The cholera, Typhoid, and Diarrhea diseases are rampant in our nation because, no proper water systems and safe water.

With this, it is up to us to demand that the government take immediate measures and interventions or we will continue with suffering.

15/10/2025

Which leadership types does Hon. Nhial Deng Nhial possess at the Movement?

The situation in South Sudan is currently worsening, and new leaders are emerging with the hope of turning things around as crises are overwhelming the country and exposing the suffering of its citizens - lives they never wished to endure after achieving independence in 2011.

In light of this, Hon. Nhial Deng Nhial, like other leaders, has chosen to shift his loyalties away from the president, despite being a diehard supporter of the SPLM party. Unlike other leaders, Hon. Nhial’s current shift responds to the challenging situation and reflects a desire to make things right. Moreover, his moves can be analyzed under the situational leadership style. This style of leadership is adaptive, as leaders change their approach based on the specific needs of the people they serve and the tasks at hand.

According to Paul Hersey and Ken Blanchard, this leadership model advises that the most effective leadership style depends on factors such as followers' development, ability, and motivation. In this case, situational leaders do not rely solely on a one-size-fits-all tactic but can be highly directive or more supportive as needed to maximize performance and growth. Thus, Nhial’s recent shift may stem from prolonged frustration and could be driven by elements of situational leadership, such as:

Different Leadership Style: Nhial’s thinking aligns with a flexible and adaptable approach that provides direction, coaching, support, and task delegation as the situation demands.

Examining Followers’ Development: Nhial’s core principle is to align his leadership style with individuals’ abilities and confidence for unique tasks that South Sudan currently needs.

Harmonizing Directive and Supportive Behaviors: Leaders must find a balance between directive and supportive behaviors. For instance, citizens may require high direction since they have emerged from years of conflict with Sudan. Conversely, new employees might need more direction compared to experienced individuals who require less direction or more delegation.

Concentrating on the Individual: This leadership theory emphasizes understanding the specific needs of each person rather than employing a generic tactic.

Acclimatizing to the Task: According to the situational leadership style, leaders’ approaches are influenced by the complexity and nature of the tasks they must provide for the people they serve, such as providing clear instructions, close supervision, and monitoring to help followers adapt to new and complex situations.

As people gain confidence, leaders transition to explaining strategies and coaching while gradually allowing more independence - moving from high directive, supportive, to low directive and high supportive.

In a critical situation like that of South Sudan, a leader might have to adopt a very directive approach despite the team's usual cooperation and commitment.

Consequently, it remains unclear whether Hon. Nhial will be guided by the situation that prompted him to make the significant decision leading to the declaration of the South Sudan Salvation Movement.

In contrast, his path is not yet definitive, as he has yet to establish a clear direction—whether to reform the SPLM or solidify the new party - South Sudan Salvation Movement.

Chol Machok Augustine Magak -PublicHealth Advocate

31/10/2025

29/10/2025

21/10/2025

20/10/2025

20/10/2025

20/10/2025

15/10/2025

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