Forty-two midwives, nurses and community health workers from across Twic County graduated Friday from an intensive refresher programme focused on maternal care, newborn resuscitation and referral pathways to Turalei Hospital. Each participant received a standardised training kit containing gloves, sterile drapes, resuscitation masks and illustrated protocol cards designed for use in facilities with limited electricity.
The course, supported by county health authorities and partner NGOs, responded to concerns that staff turnover and long gaps between formal training had left some rural clinics unprepared for complicated deliveries. Instructors used mannequins, role-play scenarios and case studies drawn from recent referrals to reinforce decision-making under pressure.
A kit on the shelf saves no life. We trained hands, not boxes — so that when a mother arrives at midnight, someone knows exactly what to do.
County medical officer Dr. Rebecca Ajak said the programme prioritised payams where travel times to the hospital exceed two hours on rough roads. Participants mapped referral routes, identified emergency phone contacts and practised stabilising patients before transport — skills critical during the rainy season when floods can block vehicles for days.
Building a stronger referral network
Training modules also covered infection prevention, nutrition counselling for pregnant women and documentation standards that help hospital staff continue care seamlessly when referrals arrive. Motorcycle ambulance volunteers attended a parallel session on safe patient transport and communication with receiving clinics.
Health workers who spoke to TMR welcomed the support but highlighted persistent gaps: irregular drug supplies, unpaid incentives and the need for solar refrigeration at remote clinics. Dr. Ajak acknowledged the challenges and said the county is negotiating bulk procurement contracts while exploring diaspora partnerships for equipment donations.
A follow-up mentorship scheme will pair hospital specialists with clinic staff through monthly radio check-ins and quarterly supervised visits. Officials hope the investment will reduce preventable maternal and neonatal deaths as road improvements and mobile outreach expand access across Twic Mayardit.
