(PANRIENG) – The Chief Administrator of the Ruweng Administrative Area, Stephano Wieu de Mialek, has carried out an inspection of key roads linking Panrieng, Athony, and Nyokrial, stressing the importance of improved infrastructure for trade, agriculture and local development.
The inspection took place on Saturday, 20 September 2025, and was part of the administration’s wider efforts to improve connectivity across Ruweng. Mr Wieu was accompanied by senior officials including the Minister of Information, James Monyluak, the Minister of Physical Infrastructure, Santo Luol and the Security Advisor, Peter Monyluak Mijok.
The Chief Administrator commended the Greater Pioneer Operating Company (GPOC) for its work on the road network, describing the progress as a significant step in supporting both economic growth and community welfare. He said road access was critical for enabling the movement of goods and services, supporting farmers to reach markets, and encouraging wider business activity.
He explained that investment in transport networks was directly linked to stronger agricultural output and improved trade opportunities. Reliable road connections reduce costs for traders, allow goods to reach markets faster, and make it easier for investors to operate in the area.
Mr Wieu also called for stronger cooperation between government institutions, private companies, and local communities in building infrastructure that benefits all citizens.
“Road connectivity is a driver of economic productivity and community development. It allows farmers, traders, and service providers to improve their livelihoods and support growth in the region,” his press office said in a statement.
The visit was described as part of ongoing efforts by the Ruweng administration to invest in physical infrastructure.
Earlier in September, the Chief Administrator inspected the construction of a government guest house and other facilities in Panrieng Municipality, which his press office said reflects his office’s focus on improving both service delivery and government presence.
Ruweng’s economy relies heavily on agriculture, oil, and cross border trade. Better infrastructure is seen as essential to linking local production to markets in South Sudan and neighbouring Sudan. Improved roads also reduce reliance on costly alternative transport and help stabilise the flow of goods during the rainy season.
The South Sudanese economy continues to face high inflation, with one United States dollar trading at around 7,100 South Sudanese Pounds (SSP) in September 2025. Traders and business groups have frequently stressed that investment in road networks can help offset these pressures by cutting transport costs and making goods more affordable for consumers.
Ruweng Road Inspection Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | Inspection of Panrieng–Athony and Nyokrial roads |
| Date | Saturday, 20 September 2025 |
| Location | Panrieng County, Ruweng Administrative Area, South Sudan |
| Chief Official | Stephano Wieu de Mialek, Chief Administrator of Ruweng Administrative Area |
| Officials Present | James Monyluak (Minister of Information), Santo Luol (Minister of Physical Infrastructure), Peter Monyluak Mijok (Security Advisor) |
| Company Involved | Greater Pioneer Operating Company (GPOC) – commended for road works |
| Purpose of Inspection | To assess progress on road connectivity and its role in trade, agriculture, and service delivery |
| Key Statements | Roads are vital for agricultural productivity, trade access, and lowering costs for businesses |
| Related Developments | Earlier inspection in September of government guest house and municipal facilities in Panrieng |
| Economic Context | $1 = 7,100 SSP (September 2025 market rate), affecting cost of trade and transport |
| Expected Impact | Better access to markets, reduced transport costs, improved movement of goods and services, stronger community development |