By Alan Clement
CES Governor, Rabi Mujung led a high-level delegation to inspect roads around Juba International Airport ahead of planned reconstruction and beautification works.
The inspection was joined last week by national Minister of Roads and Bridges Simon Mijak Mijok, emphasized the government’s commitment to safer transport corridors, improved drainage, and compliance with international aviation standards.
According to the governor’s office, the inspection focused on encroachment, drainage, security, and accessibility.
State Minister of Roads and Bridges, Clement Maring Samuel, said, “Alternative access routes will be opened to ease congestion and address drainage problems.”
David Morbe, State Minister of Lands, Housing and Public Utilities, issued a firm statement to that illegally occupying land around the Airport. “Roads illegally occupied will be reclaimed,” he said urging affected communities to cooperate with authorities.
Eng. John Chol, Undersecretary at the National Ministry of Roads and Bridges, revealed that several road reserves designed to be 20 meters wide have been encroached upon. “We must reclaim these spaces and install proper drainage systems,” he said in a statement.
“The goal is to ensure JIA meets global benchmarks,” emphasized Michael Lopuke Lotyam, the Chairperson of the South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority. He warned that vehicles moving too close to air traffic facilities pose safety risks and stressed the urgency of constructing canals to divert stormwater away from the runway.
The Deputy Mayor for Infrastructure and Environment of Juba City Council, Juma Moses Michael, emphasized the Council’s role in opening new roads, improving drainage, and waste management. He urged residents to take “responsibility for proper waste disposal and management to prevent blockages that worsen flooding.”
The inspection marks a pivotal step in South Sudan’s infrastructure modernization agenda, with JIA positioned as a strategic gateway for regional connectivity and economic growth.