By Emmanuel Mandella

Farmers in Ezo County, Kediba, and Yambio have expressed their frustrations over the bad state of the roads, which has hindered them from transporting produce to markets.

“During the rainy season, it’s nearly impossible to move goods,” said Samuel Lado, a farmer from Ezo County. “We lose so much because our crops can’t reach buyers in time.”

In Kediba, another farmer, Mary Julia, echoed similar concerns. “Without proper roads, we are trapped. We need the government to prioritize our region so we can thrive,” she said.

Another farmer, John Amos, from Yambio, shared his tribulations:  “We see other regions getting tarmacked roads while we struggle with mud and potholes. It’s unfair. How can we compete with farmers in other states when we can’t even reach the market?”

Despite the setbacks, Minister Richard expressed gratitude to General Africano Mande Gedima, a native of Western Equatoria, for his ongoing efforts to rehabilitate the road from Kuda in Central Equatoria to Karika in Western Equatoria.

He called on the National Government to take its responsibility for Western Equatoria’s roads seriously and appealed to development partners to reconsider their withdrawal.

“Without roads, there is no development,” she said. “The people of Western Equatoria State deserve better, and we will not stop advocating for the resources and support needed to connect our communities and improve their livelihoods.”

As Western Equatoria continues to struggle with its infrastructure challenges, the voices of farmers and community members highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive and equitable approach to road development across South Sudan.

The Western Equatoria State Minister of Roads, Transport, and Bridges, Anna Tuna Richard, has also complained of the dire state of infrastructure in the region, attributing the challenges to inadequate funding, a lack of equipment, and dwindling support from development partners.

“I know what I’m doing, and the ministry has plans, achievements, and a way forward. But the challenges outweigh the achievements. Roads are the backbone of development, yet we lack the resources to address even the most urgent needs,” she said.

The minister highlighted several critical roadways in disrepair, including Kediba Road, Amadi-Lakamadi, Mundri-Bangolu-Diko-Moba, Yambio-Tambura-Nagero, and Diabio-Ezo-Source Yubu-Tambura. These roads are lifelines for farmers, traders, and residents, yet they remain in deplorable conditions, impeding transportation, trade, and access to essential services.

“Why must we fill potholes on the Yambio-Juba Highway ourselves when it’s the responsibility of the National Ministry of Roads and Bridges?” she asked.