UNMISS-funded construction of Amaki Bridge reconnects rural communities in Maridi County

WESTERN EQUATORIA - For years, residents of Amaki Boma in Maridi County have struggled to cross a waterway to access already scarce healthcare, schools and markets, particularly during the rainy season when water levels surge to dangerous levels.

To strengthen community safety and connect them with essential services, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan funded the construction of the new Amaki Bridge.

The initiative is already having a significant impact.

“It is helping women in labour, especially those who are struggling to deliver, because they can be quickly transported to the hospital. If an ambulance is available, it can also come and pick up the women to provide immediate care. It really is lifesaving,” explains resident, Yomima Amuna.

Beyond healthcare, the improved road connection is opening new opportunities for farmers who previously had difficulty transporting their produce to markets. Previously, farmers had no choice but to sell their crops locally because of the challenges reaching the town.

“Now that the bridge has been repaired, we can transport our agricultural produce to bigger markets for sale,” she says.

According to Stanley Joseph, Amaki Boma area chief, motorbikes previously became stuck in the water, with their engines sometimes submerged, making the crossing both difficult and dangerous.

“The bridge will help prevent people from drowning while trying to wade through the water.”

The improved connectivity is expected to also benefit farmers and traders travelling to areas further afield, including Maridi town, Mvolo County and other elsewhere.

For UNMISS, the bridge is critical to ensuring that peacekeeping patrols can access the area and that peacebuilding activities can be conducted in remote, conflict-affected areas.

“It gives us easy accessibility to go and support the government in protection of civilians and other peace engagements,” explains UNMISS representative, Bazawi Thomas Felix.

The Amaki Bridge is part of UNMISS’ efforts to support communities through quick impact projects aimed at improving access, strengthening livelihoods, and creating conditions that support the protection of civilians.

For residents of Amaki Boma, the bridge represents more than a new crossing.

It offers safety as well as the opportunity to strengthen community connections and resilience.

--
By Felix Katie