Rehabilitation work on the Bor-Ayod Road in Jonglei State has started, a state official has said.
James Mawich Makuach, the Minister of Roads and Bridges in Jonglei State told Radio Tamazuj Friday that the more than 200 kilometres project, funded by the World Food Programme (WFP) in collaboration with the Jonglei State Government, aims to improve the accessibility and mobility for people in Northern Jonglei who were recently affected by floods and insecurity.
“This road is a lifeline, as you know, and it will serve the northern part of Jonglei State, starting from Twic East, Duk, Ayod and areas of Greater Akobo,” Mawich said. “When the first 80 kilometres is covered by murram, this will make movement toward the northern parts of the state easier.”
Mawich pointed out that 81 kilometres of the 20-meter-wide road will be upgraded with murram, making it suitable for all weather. He added the remaining 119 kilometres would be graded and cleared of bushes.
Mawich said the road is a major lifeline to people in the area, as it will boost the delivery of humanitarian assistance, the movement of goods and services, and the return of displaced people to their villages.
“Given the fact that the area was devastated by floods, the construction of the road gives hope to our people, especially the people of the northern part of the state. They will go back to their previous places. I think this is an important development initiative undertaken by our partners in coordination with the Jonglei State Government,” the minister said.
He said the road will improve the economy and security of the region by creating job opportunities, enhancing trade and commerce, and reducing the risks of attacks by armed groups.
The minister appealed to local communities to cooperate with the contractors and protect the road from vandalism and theft. He also urged the national government and the international community to support more road projects in the state.