Senior South Sudanese Advisor Mayen Wol Jong Dies in Nairobi After Cardiac Surgery Complications

Mayen Wol Jong, a senior technical advisor at South Sudan's Ministry of Petroleum, died on August 3, 2026, at Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi. His death followed complications from cardiac surgery that resulted in the failure of several vital organs.

Complications During Heart Surgery

Jong had undergone a revision procedure to replace cardiac valves originally implanted in 1986 in Khartoum. Surgeons discovered severe calcification around the old valve site, which compromised tissue pressure and prevented proper placement of the new valves. Despite successful valve installation, the complications led to irreversible failure of Jong's heart, lungs, and liver.

He was placed on mechanical life support from August 1, but medical staff indicated no meaningful recovery was expected.

Distinguished Career in Sudan and South Sudan

Throughout his career, Jong served in various capacities across Sudan and South Sudan. He worked with Norwegian Church Aid on humanitarian projects and held roles within the Office of the First Vice President in Khartoum. After South Sudan's independence in 2011, he served as chief administrator in the Office of the President and twice as undersecretary at the Ministry of Petroleum.

At the time of his passing, Jong was senior technical advisor on the Board of Directors of the Geo-Physical Company under the Ministry of Petroleum.

Condolences and Funeral Arrangements

Wilson Wol Wek, Jong's former office manager, confirmed his death on behalf of the family, describing him as a "distinguished lawyer, devoted Christian, respected family man, and hard-working individual." Unity State Governor Lt. Gen. Dr. Joseph Manytuil Wejang extended condolences to Jong's family and colleagues, praising his professionalism and wisdom in the oil sector.

The family expressed gratitude to President Salva Kiir Mayardit for his confidence in Jong through multiple appointments. Plans to repatriate Jong's remains from Nairobi to Juba and then to Kuajok will be announced in coordination with the South Sudanese government.