At least 15 women have undergone successful fistula surgeries at Aweil State Hospital in South Sudan’s Aweil State, health officials said.

Women from different parts of the greater Aweil, Northern Upper Nile, Warrap and Sudan’s South Kordofan State, turned up for free fistula screening and treatment services. The campaign is organized by the country’s health ministry with support from its partners like UNFPA, UNICEF, MSF and ALIMA.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Thursday, the medical director of Aweil hospital, Reec Mathok Diing confirmed that 15 patients underwent successful surgeries, adding that the medical teams will conclude their work on October 2.

Several patients applauded the national government and its partners for organizing the free fistula treatment.

Lydia Kuje, a 22-year-old lady from Sudan’s Nuba Mountains, thanked the government for providing free treatment.

Meanwhile, 18-year-old Benia Mathar from Maban County thanked the government and its partners for the free fistula campaign.

Deng Ariik Thon, a representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), said they are targeting about 40 patients.

Fistula is an abnormal connection between two hollow spaces such as blood vessels, intestines, or other hollow organs. It is usually caused by injury or surgery, but can also result from infection or inflammation.