A major project to repair the main supply route in the north-western region of South Sudan is now underway by Chinese engineers serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

The 214-kilmetre road is the only viable transport option for local motorists and traders but is also the only exit route available for evacuation during crisis situations given the ongoing insecurity in the region. It is therefore important to local authorities, UNMISS, and also communities in the area.

Work has commenced on the first section of about 39 kilometres from Kuajok to Thar-Kueng which is on the border between the Wau and Gogrial regions.

At the launch of the project, the Minister of Physical Infrastructure, Hon. Chan Wek Pei said the repair project would be the “bridge” between the UN and South Sudanese people and he urged all parties to cooperate to ensure the rehabilitation work progressed smoothly.

The commander of the Chinese Horizontal Military Engineering Company in Kuajok said his troops would work hard to ensure the work was carried out as quickly as possible and to a high standard to enable local communities and businesspeople to travel safely.