Dr. Bol Mel unveils plan to connect Juba with clean water
The Vice President’s Economic Cluster in partnership with the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation have vowed to enhance urban water connectivity
By Aguok Chok
The Vice President and the chairperson of the Economic Cluster, Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, has stressed government’s determination to provide clean drinking water to the residents of Juba.
Dr. Bol made the remarks during a meeting with the newly appointed Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, James Mawich Makuac, on Thursday to discuss the enhancement of urban water connectivity as part of the government’s broader roadmap for infrastructure and social development.
“The government is committed to implementing its roadmap to connect Juba City with clean drinking water, aiming to improve the living conditions of urban residents,” he said.
He stressed that clean water access is not only a public health priority but also a step toward fulfilling the nation’s development agenda.
According to the Vice President, the Juba clean water project is one of the government’s flagship initiatives for 2025.
On his part, the Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, James Mawich Makuac, expressed confidence in the ministry’s ability to deliver the project.
He said the government has already developed a strategic plan to ensure every household in Juba gains access to clean and sustainable water, before eventually rolling out similar services nationwide.
“The Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, James Mawich Makuac, we discussed with H.E. the importance of projects that are on the pipeline, especially for the urban connectivity of Juba town,” Minister Mawich said.
He added that the Vice President had instructed him to move forward with engaging capable companies that can implement the project effectively.
“H.E. has given me a go-ahead to continue engagement with the companies that are capable of connecting to Juba city with clean water,” he explained.
Minister Mawich further stated that the water connectivity initiative will have a wider impact beyond urban areas.
The discussions also focused on peace building efforts in other parts of the country, particularly regions that have been affected by conflict.
“We have also touched on the areas for peace building, especially in those corridors of northern Jonglei,” the Minister said.
He assured the Vice President that he would not only focus on water development but also contribute to peace initiatives as part of his role in government.
“I surely his Excellency that I will be also contributing to the peace building as a national minister,” he said.
The Vice President welcomed the minister’s commitment, noting that water development and peace building go hand in hand in improving lives and fostering stability.
The Juba clean water project is expected to begin with major urban centers before expanding to rural areas, in line with the government’s plan to deliver essential services and meet sustainable development goals.
