Obituary: Dr John Dual Antipas Ayiei Monythoi
Dr John Dual Antipas Ayiei Monythoi passed away peacefully on the morning of 7 March, 2025, at the Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya, following a brief health decline due to a heart attack. He was surrounded by his loving family.
Born on 1 January, 1970, in Malakal, Upper Nile State, Dr John was the beloved son of Mr Antipas Ayiei Monythoi and Mrs Akuany Ayom. He hailed from the Thoi community and was the fifth child of his mother. As a naturally gifted leader and elder sibling, Dr John embraced his role with pride—always protecting, guiding, and caring for his brothers and sisters, some of whom preceded him in death.
Dr John began his academic journey in Western Equatoria, attending primary school in Nzara, Western Equatoria State. He later transferred to Doleib Hill Primary School in Malakal. His secondary education included Amaria Intermediate School and Al-Sheikh Lotfi Boys Secondary School, where he completed his studies between 1988 and 1990.
He went on to pursue higher education at the University of Khartoum, earning a Bachelor of Pharmacy (B. Pharm.) from 1993 to 2000. He further enhanced his expertise by obtaining a Certificate in Effective Drug Management from the Center for Effective Drug Management and Policy in Nairobi (2003), and a Certificate in Pharmaceutical Economics from the University of Science Malaysia in 2005.
Dr John was a distinguished pharmacist, visionary leader, and statesman whose contributions had lasting impacts on public health and education in South Sudan and beyond.
From 2000 to 2002, Dr Antipas served as the Chief Pharmacist, Gadarif State Hospital, Sudan, where he oversaw drug distribution to health facilities, conducted stock-out data analysis, and supervised medical staff, contributing to improved pharmaceutical services. He also worked as the Director of Central Supplies, Kassala, North Sudan from 2002–2005, managing drug procurement and distribution across hospitals and PHCCs and led teams to ensure proper supervision and stock monitoring.
During his time as the State Minister of Education, Jonglei State (2005–2009), he developed the Strategic Education Plan (2007–2011), resulting in the establishment of 89 primary schools, and founded the Dr John Garang Institute of Science and Technology, along with regional training centres in Panyagor and Makuac for teacher development.
As the State Advisor for Health and Environment, Jonglei State (2010–2011), he played a critical advisory role in shaping public health and environmental policies in the state. His counsel contributed to improvements in health sector planning, environmental awareness, and institutional coordination across health and sanitation programmes.
In 2010, Dr John founded Antipas Pharmacy, a cornerstone of pharmaceutical services in the region. He later established Antipas Pharma Company in 2019, where he served as CEO. His company became a trusted supplier of medical supplies to Paloch Hospital, Petroleum Companies, SPLA, and the Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) programme.
Dr John was admired as a man of peace and a champion for nation-building. He inspired many through his integrity, hard work, and unshakable commitment to quality healthcare and education. His mentorship and vision impacted countless professionals in the pharmaceutical and public service sectors.
Dr John’s legacy lives on through his children, community, and the countless lives he uplifted. His work in public health, education, and entrepreneurship left an indelible mark on South Sudan’s development. Although he is no longer with us, the values he embodied—service, leadership, and compassion—will endure for generations.
Dr John was a devoted husband and father. He is survived by his three wives and nine children.
