(JUBA COUNTY) – The Governor of Central Equatoria State, Lt. Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, on Saturday led a high level inspection of sections of roads around Juba International Airport ahead of planned reconstruction and beautification works.
He was accompanied by national and state ministers, as well as technical officials from different sectors. The visit aimed at assessing road safety, drainage, accessibility, and security concerns in the area surrounding South Sudan’s busiest airport.
National Minister of Roads and Bridges, Hon. Simon Mijak Mijok, said the government is committed to creating safer and more efficient transport corridors to support Juba’s role as a regional aviation hub. He added that improvements around the airport are also necessary to align with international aviation standards.
The State Minister of Roads and Bridges, Hon. Clement Maring Samuel, explained that alternative routes will be opened to ease congestion. He said better drainage solutions will also be put in place to reduce flooding, which has been a long standing problem in Juba.
Central Equatoria State Minister of Lands, Housing and Public Utilities, Hon. David Morbe, said roads that have been illegally occupied by private structures would be reclaimed. He called on affected residents to cooperate with the authorities to ensure smooth progress.
The Undersecretary in the National Ministry of Roads and Bridges, Eng. John Chol, noted that several road reserves originally planned to be 20 metres wide have been encroached upon. He said reclaiming these spaces and installing proper drainage systems would be crucial to the reconstruction efforts.
Hon. Michael Lopuke Lotyam, Chairperson of the Board of the South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority, said the broader plan is to transform Juba International Airport into a facility that meets international standards. He highlighted safety risks caused by vehicles moving too close to sensitive air traffic facilities and warned that the current situation needs urgent correction.
He further explained that heavy flooding continues to threaten the airport, as most stormwater from Juba drains directly into its premises. He proposed the construction of new canals to divert water away from the runway to safeguard aviation operations.
Deputy Mayor for Infrastructure and Environment at Juba City Council, HW. Juma Moses Michael, said the Council is committed to opening new roads, managing drainage, and improving waste management in the city. He urged Juba residents to take responsibility for proper waste disposal to prevent blockages that worsen flooding and put additional pressure on airport facilities.