Residents in the capital of South Sudan, Juba, have expressed concern after heavy rainfall on Friday morning resulted in harvested rainwater appearing black in colour, sparking worries about health and the environment.
Following intermittent downpours since Thursday evening, residents were surprised to find dark, almost charcoal-coloured rainwater in containers and drainage systems across the city.
Opiew Opiew Gilo, a resident of the Referendum suburb, remarked, “It has been raining throughout the night, which is normal. However, waking up to find our harvested water looking dark or black is alarming. This is unprecedented, and we urge the government to investigate.”
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj, Opiew added, “The government should advise against consuming this water as it may pose health risks.”
The unusual phenomenon has raised concerns about potential air pollution or environmental degradation, likely linked to burning activities.
Edmund Yakani, a prominent civil society activist, explained, “Juba has seen heavy rainfall in recent days, but the dark rainwater is concerning. Experts suggest it may be due to widespread charcoal burning.”
Yakani connected the trend to economic challenges, stating, “Charcoal production has increased as a means of income for groups like soldiers, police, and doctors amid financial hardship. This poses risks to the environment and future generations.”
Officials at the National Ministry of Environment have acknowledged the issue, with Joseph Africano, undersecretary, attributing the discoloured rainwater to atmospheric pollution caused by burning activities.
Africano clarified, “When vegetation is burned, smoke is released into the atmosphere. This smoke interacts with clouds, altering the colour of rainwater when it falls.”
He emphasised the need for an environmental assessment and advised residents against using the rainwater for drinking or household purposes.
Africano assured, “We will assess the pollution and its extent. This rainwater is contaminated and should not be consumed.”
Environmental experts have cautioned that unrestricted deforestation and charcoal production could have severe consequences on South Sudan’s delicate ecosystem.
