SOUTH SUDAN: Government Urged To Prioritize Rehabilitation Of Juba Road As Key Economic Artery

By Deborah Akur Chol, South Sudan

A two-kilometre stretch of road linking Freedom Bridge to the Central Bank tarmac road in Juba is in dire need of rehabilitation, posing risks to trade and safety, according to civil society leaders.

This road, a crucial economic artery for the capital, is deteriorating under the heavy burden of cargo trucks, prompting urgent calls for government intervention.

Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), has called on Vice President Hon. Taban Deng, who oversees the Infrastructure Cluster and the Minister of Roads and Bridges, to take prompt action.

“This road may be short, but its significance is immense. It serves as an economic lifeline and a matter of public safety. We must address it before it leads to tragedy or tarnishes the reputation of our capital,” Yakani stated emphatically.

The Maram-surfaced road has become the primary route for cargo trucks entering Juba, especially following the closure of the ageing old bridge.

The diversion of heavy traffic through a densely populated area has raised serious safety concerns.

Yakani noted, “This route has transformed into a danger zone, particularly at night. Many trucks lack adequate rear lighting, and the poor road conditions pose grave threats to both drivers and local residents.”

The road’s decline not only jeopardizes lives but also disrupts trade serving as a vital link for goods entering and exiting the capital.

Its condition significantly impacts trade volumes, tax revenues, and the overall perception of Juba among both domestic and international audiences.

Yakani is urging the government to prioritize the rehabilitation of this road as a critical project, advocating for its full tarmacking ahead of South Sudan’s Independence Day celebrations in July. Should full tarmacking prove unfeasible in the short term, he recommends quick repairs to upgrade it to a safer standard.

He also called on the Ministries of Trade and Industry, Transport, and local construction firms to collaborate in addressing the urgent concerns surrounding the road’s condition.

“Our leaders must take decisive action. The ramifications for both the economy and public safety are too significant to overlook,” he stressed.

“We must send a strong message that we are committed to the welfare of our citizens and the integrity of Juba’s image,” he added.

As Independence Day approaches, the responsibility now lies with South Sudan’s leaders to demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of the capital’s residents.

The state of this road will serve as a litmus test for political will, responsiveness, and respect for the dignity of Juba’s inhabitants.