By Lodu William Odiya
Jonglei State government and VNG International, a Netherlands-based organization, have committed to strengthening their partnership to enhance flood resilience across the state. The vow follows a high-level discussion in Bor that signals a significant step toward institutional collaboration on flood mitigation.
Governor Dr. Riek Gai Kok hosted the VNG International delegation, led by Karim Bousek. The delegation was joined by senior officials from South Sudan’s Ministry of Water and Irrigation, underscoring the national importance of the initiative.
The core focus of the visit was to evaluate ongoing flood mitigation efforts and explore concrete pathways to formalize and expand joint initiatives. These initiatives are urgently aimed at protecting vulnerable communities from catastrophic river overflows and flash floods that have devastated parts of Jonglei, leaving hundreds of families without shelter and access to clean water.
“We came to Jonglei to witness the progress made over the years in flood resilience,” the VNG International statement read. “Together with the Governor, we discussed institutionalizing our cooperation and scaling support for communities at risk. Strengthening early warning systems is key to ensuring people are better prepared for rising water levels.”
VNG International emphasized their priority is to build lasting capacity projects that empower communities and establish strong local structures.
Governor Gai expressed “heartfelt appreciation” for VNG’s long-standing support, which he noted dates back to the liberation struggle.
“Your investment in building local capacity from boma to payam, county to municipality is commendable,” the Governor said. He confirmed that the state government is looking forward to formalizing the partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which will be facilitated by the Local Government Board in Juba.
In a major announcement, the Governor also confirmed the forthcoming inauguration of a Dutch-funded water treatment plant in Juba. This transformative project, supported by the Government of the Netherlands through its embassy in South Sudan, is expected to “significantly enhance access to clean water across our urban centers” once operational.The urgency of the situation was underscored by key state and national officials who reaffirmed their commitment to the partnership.
Jacob Mayom, Acting Minister of Roads and Bridges, stated the state’s readiness “to cooperate and receive support to strengthen our flood management systems.”Bor County Commissioner Samuel Ateny Pech expressed deep gratitude for the timely engagement, noting that the Netherlands’ support will “bring substantial relief and lasting benefits to the people of Bor County.”
Peter Mahal, Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Water, highlighted that Jonglei is fortunate to host this initiative. He assured that the national government “stands ready to support and ensure service delivery across the state,” adding that VNG’s technical guidance will empower local communities.
Aleer Goi Aleer, Acting Chairperson of the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC), reinforced the severity of the crisis, noting that floods continue to displace communities and disrupt vital road networks and awareness campaigns. “Addressing these issues requires a technical and coordinated approach,” he concluded.