(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – Construction has started on the Wuluturu Bridge in Yei River County, a project expected to improve trade routes, support local businesses, and enhance connectivity across Central Equatoria State.
The bridge, which collapsed nearly ten years ago, has been a significant barrier for residents, traders, and transport operators. Its absence limited access to markets, health services, and schools, particularly during the rainy season when crossing the stream became difficult and sometimes dangerous.
The county authorities have launched a rehabilitation programme to rebuild the bridge and restore year round access. Local officials say the project will not only improve mobility but also stimulate economic activity for farmers, traders, and small businesses in the area.
Yei River County Commissioner Emmanuel Taban Seme said the project will provide a reliable transport link between Wuluturu, surrounding rural areas, and Yei town. He described the work as essential for local commerce, facilitating faster delivery of goods and reducing transport costs for traders.
The Commissioner said the project is expected to take about three months if work proceeds as planned. He urged engineers and contractors to deliver a durable structure that meets safety standards and serves the county for years to come.
Residents noted that restoring infrastructure such as Wuluturu Bridge is critical for economic development in South Sudan, where many rural communities depend on a few key roads and crossings to access markets and services. Improved road and bridge networks can increase trade, attract investment, and reduce operational costs for local businesses.
Local business leaders welcomed the construction, saying the bridge will unlock economic opportunities in Wuluturu and surrounding areas. They said it will make it easier to transport agricultural produce, construction materials, and other goods, creating a more predictable and reliable business environment.
The project is also expected to support cross border trade, particularly for small traders connecting to markets near the Democratic Republic of Congo.
