A Policy Analysis of Sustainable Pharmaceutical and Medical Supply Strategies in South Sudan,

South Sudan’s healthcare system faces profound challenges in ensuring reliable access to essential medicines and medical supplies. This policy analysis examines strategies for creating sustainable pharmaceutical supply chains within this complex, post-conflict context. This article critically analyses national and international policy frameworks governing pharmaceutical and medical supply strategies in South Sudan. Its objective is to identify their core components, implementation challenges, and potential for sustainability. The study employs a qualitative policy analysis methodology. This involves a document review of key policy texts, strategic plans, and programme reports, alongside a thematic analysis of stakeholder perspectives gathered from grey literature and relevant organisational evaluations. The analysis identifies a predominant reliance on donor-dependent, vertical programmes which undermines system resilience. A key finding is the critical gap in local institutional capacity for procurement, quality assurance, and distribution. Strategies incorporating local private sector engagement showed a higher reported fulfilment rate for routine health facility orders compared to purely centralised models. Achieving a sustainable medical supply system in South Sudan requires a fundamental shift from fragmented, emergency-focused models towards an integrated, nationally owned system. Current policies lack the coherence and long-term financing mechanisms necessary for this transition. Policy should prioritise investment in national supply chain institutions and workforce development. A mixed-model approach, strategically engaging accredited private suppliers, should be expanded. Sustainable financing must be secured through increased government commitment and innovative funding mechanisms. health policy, pharmaceutical supply chain, sustainability, South Sudan, essential medicines, health systems strengthening This analysis provides a consolidated critique of medical supply policies in South Sudan, offering evidence-informed recommendations to guide policymakers and development partners towards more sustainable and equitable systems.