South Sudan’s minister of health Riek Gai Kok on Monday has opened a new maternity complex in Aweil in order to offer improved clinical services to mothers.

Addressing a crowd of citizens in Aweil, Gai appreciated the government of Canada for its contribution toward the new maternal complex.

The minister said maternal deaths related to childbirth in South Sudan are at the highest rate compared to many countries, adding that forced marriages are identified as causes of the dilemma.

The minister revealed that the government of Canada has funded eight maternity complexes across the country.

Several women groups in the area welcomed the opening of the new maturity complex and vowed to support the government of South Sudan.

Ayak Anthony, a 40-year-old woman, said she is happy about the opening of the new health facility.

Via RT