South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Jenifer James
The Central Equatoria State Ministry of Roads and Bridges and the Civil Aviation Authority have committed to collaborating on solutions to the challenges facing Juba International Airport, including waste management, drainage, and road infrastructure.
Speaking after a joint meeting in Juba on Wednesday, Clement Maring, the state Minister of Roads and Bridges, said that the discussions addressed encroachment, environmental issues, and the necessity of bringing the airport up to international standards.
“We convened with the Civil Aviation Authority to address issues impacting the airport, specifically regarding waste management and encroachment on Civil Aviation Authority land,” Maring said.
“It was a productive meeting, and we have reached a point where a resolution will be formalised in a Memorandum of Understanding by all stakeholders.”
Maring noted that the team was dispatched by Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony after his earlier engagement with the Civil Aviation Authority on the same matters.
“The Governor has demonstrated his commitment to finding solutions that will ensure our airport meets international standards,” he stated.
Meanwhile, John Woja, the Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority, expressed gratitude for the state government’s support in enhancing the airport.
“Our meeting was fruitful in terms of improving services at Juba International Airport, particularly concerning infrastructure modernisation and environmental management,” Woja said.
“Environmental management is a crucial aspect of air transport, and as we have witnessed during floods, the airport is significantly impacted due to its low-lying location.”
He disclosed that the government has agreed to support drainage improvements and road upgrades to facilitate traffic flow and safeguard airport operations.
“We have reached consensus on several initiatives, including constructing a canal to the Nile to allow water drainage, and collaborating with the City Council to enhance waste collection and prevent plastic contamination of the river,” Woja explained.
“This is a positive development, and I would like to thank the Government of South Sudan, particularly the Central Equatoria State Government, for their commitment.”
