Torit receives $2 million solar-powered water system

JUBA – The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) inaugurated a $2 million solar-powered water supply system in Torit, Eastern Equatoria State, on Monday.

The project, funded by Germany, will provide clean and safe drinking water to an estimated 43,800 residents of the town.

“We are delighted that 43,800 people, primarily women and children, will benefit from this initiative,” said Hamida Lasseko, UNICEF Representative in South Sudan. “The access to clean water will improve sanitation and hygiene in homes, healthcare facilities, and schools.”

Mary Nadio Lodira, Deputy Governor of Eastern Equatoria, expressed gratitude to UNICEF and the German Embassy.

“Clean water is essential for our survival and well-being,” Lodira said. “We are thankful to the German taxpayers whose contributions made this project possible.”

German Ambassador to South Sudan Christian Sedat emphasized the importance of clean water access.

“Germany is proud to support this vital project,” Sedat said. “The inauguration of the Torit water system exemplifies the power of collaboration in South Sudan’s water sector.”

Sedat reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to supporting South Sudan’s peace process and long-term development.

The upgraded Torit water system includes two boreholes equipped with solar-powered submersible pumps, a 25-kilometer pipeline distribution network, an additional 500 cubic meters of storage, increasing total capacity by 50%, and 25 new water kiosks, bringing the total to 33.

The project also incorporates a chlorine dosing system to ensure water safety during collection and storage.

The German development agency GIZ provided technical training to ensure the sustainable operation of the water system.

Rehabilitation and expansion began in November 2022 with the upgrade of the water treatment plant. Phase two, completed in June 2023, restored the water supply and installed solar panels, generators, and tanks.