"This road links Gezira and Lokloko areas (in Wau), and it is one of the most important roads in terms of getting food supply from Lokloko market and children to schools," said Wau County Commissioner John Peter Miskin.

Sixty engineers will be working on the road over the next seven days, according to Chinese Engineering Company Commander First Col. Wang Zhoungua. "The main works include laying two lines of culvert bridge, backfilling murram, compacting the ground, and clearing the drainage along both sides of the road (to avert seasonal flooding)," he said.

Area resident Yoma Ibrahim said flooding and water erosion damage the road each year. "It is difficult for cars to get into the area (during the rainy season)," said Mr. Ibrahim, adding that the roadworks should improve livelihoods in the area.

"Our school children will have access to schools and our residents will have access to the market," he added.

County Commissioner Miskin said the government plans to build a permanent bridge in the near future.