The State Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Public Utilities in Western Equatoria State and the Chamber of Commerce says drivers and motorbike riders in the state are being asked to contribute money to help sustain road repairs.
Work is ongoing between Mambe and Ras Olo in Maridi. The roadwork began three weeks ago by Rhino Construction company, funded by contributions from traders.
In order to raise more funds, however, a county committee has been formed to tax drivers using the road. Some drivers welcomed the idea while also expressing their worries that there are very many roadblocks where they are asked to pay money.
They said the roadblocks should be in one place.
The Chairperson of the Chamber of Commerce in Maridi County Benneth Khamis said citizens should not consider the exercise as political, noting it was the right of the ministry to collect such contributions.
Contributions are made in cash and fuel. Drivers of semi-trailers are asked to pay 300 South Sudanese pounds (300) or contribute 40 liters of diesel, while motorbikes pay 20 pounds.
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