By Simon Deng
The World Bank Group and the Central Equatoria State government are exploring areas of collaboration to address the growing challenges of urbanization and promote sustainable urban development in South Sudan.
This follows talks between Lukas Leschner, Senior Urban and Disaster Risk Manager for the World Bank Group, and Caretaker Governor Gen. Augustino Jadalla Kamilo Wani.
Leschner met with Governor Wani to discuss potential areas of support and collaboration for urban development.
“The meeting focused on how the World Bank can support South Sudan, and Central Equatoria State in particular, in addressing the challenges and opportunities of urbanization,” stated Central Equatoria State in a Monday press release seen by The Dawn
“The World Bank emphasized that support will build on the successes of the Enhancing Community Resilience and Local Governance Project, which is implemented by the Government of South Sudan with the support of the World Bank Group. The Bank is exploring how the project can be extended to support selected urban areas, including Juba City Council and Juba County.”
The meeting was also attended by Christopher Sarafino Wani Swaka, Caretaker Mayor of Juba City Council, and Wol Mathok Diing, Caretaker Deputy Mayor for Physical Infrastructure.
Governor Wani welcomed the initiative and assured the World Bank Group of the State’s commitment to working with them to advance urbanization.
Wani reiterated his call for collaborative engagements with the World Bank to modernize Juba as the capital of South Sudan.
“The initiative aims to provide better infrastructure and services and build capacities for urban management and urban planning in light of urbanization challenges,” Wani said.
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