Nunu Kumba dismisses MP’s plea on Yei–Kaya road renovation

JUBA – The Speaker of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, Jemma Nunu Kumba, has openly dismissed a request from a Yei River State lawmaker urging government intervention in the renovation of the deteriorating Yei–Kaya road.

The appeal was made by Paul Yoane Bonju during a parliamentary session, where he warned that the strategic highway linking Juba to Yei and onward to Kaya risks being completely cut off if urgent maintenance is not undertaken.

“The road from Juba to Yei is becoming increasingly inaccessible to travellers,” Yoane told lawmakers. “I want to appeal to the Minister of Roads and Bridges, and through the Speaker, to ensure that maintenance work is carried out. Otherwise, the road will soon be impassable.”

Lasuba further called on Adut Salva Kiir, the recently appointed Presidential Envoy for Special Programs, to back the project and ensure the road’s rehabilitation.

“We appeal for her intervention to make sure this road is constructed and maintained so that our people can travel from Juba to Yei and Kaya without unnecessary difficulties,” he added.

But Nunu was quick to push back, clarifying that such matters are beyond her role and directing the MP to seek help through proper channels.

“First of all, it is not my responsibility,” she said. “I do not work in the office of the Presidential Advisor for Special Programs. That office has its own management and procedures. Please make your appointments directly.”

Her sharp retort has been interpreted by some observers as a blunt dismissal of Lasuba’s concerns, at a time when communities in Yei and surrounding areas are grappling with soaring transport costs and worsening accessibility.

The Juba–Yei–Kaya road, stretching more than 70 miles, is regarded as a vital economic artery, connecting South Sudan’s capital with major production zones and serving as a gateway to neighbouring Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In 2019, the government allocated funds for the rehabilitation of key national roads, including this one, and earlier, the African Resource Corporation was contracted to clear sections of the highway.

However, progress has stalled, leaving many residents and traders frustrated. The poor condition of the road has not only disrupted trade but also complicated humanitarian access and the movement of essential goods.

Yoane insists the issue should remain a national priority, but with the Speaker refusing to mediate on his behalf, the lawmaker may now need to seek alternative avenues to press his case.