(AWEIL) – The Governor of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, Simon Ober Mawut, on Tuesday 12 August 2025 led a team from the State Disaster and Risk Management Committee to inspect the impact of the Aweil Drainage System. The visit was aimed at assessing how the project has improved the flow of floodwaters and reduced damage to homes and public infrastructure.
The Aweil Drainage System Project, which began in 2024, was designed to reduce the impact of seasonal flooding in Aweil town. Flooding has long been a challenge in Northern Bahr el Ghazal, causing displacement of families, damage to government offices, and destruction of property. The new drainage channels are expected to provide lasting relief by diverting water away from heavily populated and vulnerable areas.
During the tour, Governor Ober Mawut and committee members inspected several sections of the drainage network where waterways had been opened to ease the flow of surface water. Officials reported that the system is already helping to protect government buildings and residential areas from the worst effects of this year’s rainy season.
The governor emphasised that the project represents an important step in safeguarding communities from flood risks. He noted that without effective flood management systems, residents would continue to face repeated displacement and loss of livelihoods. He added that proper urban planning and investment in public infrastructure are essential to the state’s long-term resilience.
Members of the Disaster and Risk Management Committee also highlighted the need for continued maintenance of the drainage system to ensure its effectiveness. They urged the government to allocate sufficient funding for expansion, stressing that more communities across Aweil remain vulnerable to flooding.
Flooding has been a recurring challenge in South Sudan, with Northern Bahr el Ghazal among the areas hardest hit in recent years.
Ober reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding flood protection initiatives and called for cooperation between state authorities, development partners and local communities.
He said addressing flooding risks is critical not only for protecting lives and property but also for creating a stable environment for development.
