Kiir launches public consultations on river dredging project

JUBA – South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit has launched public consultation on controversial river dredging, and water resource management.

The public consultation and citizens’ awareness initiative seek to find solution on how to deal with Sudd wetlands, White Nile water resource development and management.

Akoc Akuei Manhiem, Chairperson of committee tasked by President Salva Kiir Mayardit to organize public consultations on water management said the Presidency has invited experts to lecture public on water resource management.

“The Presidency has invited a panel of both international and national experts with diverse knowledge and expertise to deliver an evidence-based analysis on proposed projects on White Nile, its tributaries and wetland,” Akuei told reporters during press conference on Monday in Juba.

Akuei said experts lecture the government and public on water resource management and best options for flood control.

“The panel of experts will facilitate the public discourse on best options for flood management system , water policies and implications of approaches to the proposed dredging operations on tributaries of the white Nile,” Akuei said.

“It will also highlight pros and cons of resuming the Jonglei Canal Project, considering the effects of large-scale hydro-climate issues of Sudd wetlands in South Sudan.”

Akuei called upon the public to participate in public consultation and fact-finding event which will take place on 10th July.

“I am urging you all to, please come and raise your concerns and share your views on these critical issues that affect the survival of our citizens and has huge implications for our potential growth and viability,” he said.

Equipment being used for dredging activities arrived in June from Egypt, thus sparking fears and anxiety among public.

A group of lawyers lodged a legal complaint against the government at the East African Court of Justice (EAC) over what they called “illegal dredging activities along the Nile River” that could have worse environmental effects on the population.

But the residents of Unity State welcomed the decision , saying the project will rescue them from seasonal flooding that have displaced more than half of the state’s population and killed hundreds since last year.