Aweil, South Sudan — The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the European Union (EU) have marked a significant milestone by officially transferring the management of newly constructed feeder roads to the state government of Northern Bahr el Ghazal in South Sudan. These vital 26 kilometers of roads, the Marialbai-Chelkou and Pantit-Anyuopjang, connect over 150,000 people and are set to revolutionize trade, accessibility, and resilience for rural communities in Aweil West County.
The roads, a cornerstone of the broader infrastructure initiative funded by the EU under its Global Gateway Strategy and executed by the WFP over five years, have rehabilitated nearly 70 kilometers of feeder roads across the state. H. E.
Pelle Enarsson, the EU’s Ambassador to the Republic of South Sudan, emphasized the importance of this development, stating, “These feeder roads improve connectivity, unlock agricultural potential, boost trade, and enhance security, providing a lifeline for many communities. ” Dr. Tong Lual Ayat, the Deputy Governor of Northern Bahr el Ghazal, echoed these sentiments, commending the European Union and the WFP for their partnership in addressing critical infrastructure gaps.
“These durable investments are making a tangible difference in people’s daily lives,” he said noting the positive impact on healthcare, education, and security in the region. South Sudan, despite its vast landmass, has a limited road network, with a mere 20,000 kilometers of roads, a small portion of which are paved.
The completion of these roads, particularly during the rainy season, will significantly enhance access to markets, schools, and health facilities, thus improving the quality of life for rural communities.
The EU and WFP view the construction and upgrading of rural infrastructure as essential for stabilization and peacebuilding in the region.
The World Bank has highlighted the importance of jobs and livelihoods in addressing economic fragility and food insecurity, viewing the project as an example of how infrastructure can create opportunities and improve the quality of life.
As the new roads begin to serve the communities, there is hope that they will contribute to reducing poverty and improving food security in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State.
The EU’s investment in rural infrastructure is part of its broader Global Gateway plan, aiming to connect and integrate the world’s economies through infrastructure and digital connectivity.
The successful handover of these roads is a critical step in South Sudan’s infrastructure development and a testament to the collaborative efforts of international organizations and the South Sudanese government to support development in rural areas.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 4*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: reliefweb
Source: European Union
