(PIBOR) – Traders in Pibor town are facing major losses after floods submerged 58 shops, cutting off the market from residents and disrupting the flow of goods.
Officials from the Greater Pibor Administrative Area confirmed the destruction on Thursday, saying heavy rainfall has left many traders without stock and residents struggling to access food and essential supplies.
Jacob Werchum Juok, Minister of Information and Communication for GPAA, said the flooding began earlier in the week and has worsened with continuous rainfall. “We had 47 shops submerged in recent days, and this morning alone we received reports of another 11 shops underwater,” he told reporters. He warned that more rain is expected, which could push the situation beyond the current damage.
The Pibor market is a key hub for trade in the region now reachable only by canoe. This has driven up the cost of transporting goods and made it harder for households to buy basic items. Families who rely on daily purchases of food and other essentials are the most affected, as accessibility has fallen sharply.
Flooding is not new to Pibor or South Sudan. Seasonal rains have repeatedly left businesses and farmland underwater, undermining local economies. Traders in Pibor say this latest disaster threatens to wipe out savings invested in stock, leaving many uncertain about their future.
Local authorities noted that the situation comes at a time when communities are already struggling with poverty, food shortages, and the effects of conflict. The flooding adds another layer of pressure, making it harder for families to cope with daily needs.
Humanitarian agencies have previously warned that persistent flooding could deepen hunger and spread disease. Last year, the United Nations reported that over one million people across South Sudan were affected by floods, including tens of thousands in Pibor.
Authorities in Pibor are appealing for urgent support to help affected traders rebuild and to provide residents with safe access to food and essential supplies. They warned that without intervention, both the local economy and household livelihoods will continue to suffer.
Impact of Pibor Flooding on Local Trade
| Indicator | Situation in Pibor | Business Implications |
|---|---|---|
| Shops submerged | 58 | Traders lose stock and income |
| Market access | Only by canoe | Higher transport costs, limited supply |
| Families affected | Thousands | Rising food insecurity |
| Expected rainfall | More predicted | Risk of further damage |
| Local economy | Disrupted | Small businesses at risk of collapse |