United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) engineers renovate Bentiu–Leer road to improve humanitarian access to vulnerable communities
Since 2021, catastrophic and ruthless floods have destroyed many roads in the unified state of northern South Sudan.
The main supply route from Bentiu to Leer is one of the most affected, especially during the intense and prolonged rainy season when communities are unable to travel to get the necessary goods and services they need to survive.
As part of the protection of civilian mandated protections, Pakistan Engineering Peacekeeping Staff in South Sudan, is using several dry months of the year to renovate the 140km stretch, connecting Bentiu to the counties of Leer, Koch and Mayendit in the Southern Unified State.
Maintenance efforts will help promote safe and rapid humanitarian assistance to those in need, said Pakistani engineer Major Hilmi Munsif.
“This road is a crucial lifeline for unified people who are severely affected by floods and conflicts, and thousands of families are displaced and urgently need assistance,” he said. “By maintaining it, we ensure that aid organizations can provide food, medical supplies and shelter to vulnerable groups in towns such as Leer, Koch, Duar.”
Improved access will also help boost trade and economic growth and improve security across the state.
“This road is essential in ensuring that peacekeeping personnel can contribute to a safer environment. It allows Philistines and other security forces to patrol the area, respond quickly to incidents and protect civilians from violence.”
Residents appreciate the efforts of Fiji peacekeepers, but also believe that the state government should help find long-term solutions to ensure freedom of movement.
“Unmiss is working to keep the road open, but when the rain comes, we still face challenges,” traveler Nyakuoth Gai said. “We do need the state government to provide access to Muram (gravel soil or rock used on the surface of the road) so that the road can be maintained in all weather, not just months of the year.”
Distributed by Apo Group on behalf of the United Nations Mission (UNMISS) in South Sudan.
