The Chinese government through its embassy in Juba has promised to improve the development of Central Equatoria State in the sectors of roads, health and education.

Speaking to journalists last week after a meeting the Governor of Central Equatoria State Emmanuel Adil Anthony, Chinese Ambassador to Juba, Hua Ning, said the government of China is committed to supporting infrastructural sector through its development cooperation.

“Education, health care and road network across the state will improve the socio-economic development of this country and particularly Central Equatoria State,” said Ning.

“We are soon starting to roll out some comprehensive programmes which will be basically on small scale business to empower the local population and capacity building on various aspects,” he added.

At the beginning of this year, the Chinese construction company met Adil to discuss a construction plan of the Gudele –Rock City road to Custom to avoid traffic congestion in Gudele One.

Ning appealed to governor Adil for their protection in the State, especially for the Chinese nationals working on the construction sites who have been assigned to a number of projects in the country and the state.

Roadside attack

Last week, a Chinese national was shot dead in Jebel Ladu. The victim was part of the team deployed by Shangdong Hi-Speed Company constructing the Juba –Rumbek Highway. Adil condemned the incident describing it as the barbaric.

 He said the government is committed in the protection of citizens and foreigners living in the country.

 “Perpetrators shall be brought into account once they are trapped out as the security operatives are doing their best through their intelligence network,” said Adil.

 He said the state and national governments have always ensured creating an enabling environment for investors so that they can come and explore ways on some potential areas of investment across the state.

Insecurity in the country persisted since 2013 even after the signing of the revitalized peace agreement in 2018 in Addis Ababa.

 Numerous attacks on civilians and commercial vehicles have taken place in recent months on Juba –Yei Road, Juba –Nimule, and Juba –Torit Road leaving many people dead and injured.

The Kenyan government also raised an alarm over the situation in April this year saying an attack on Kenyan truck drivers along Juba – Nimule Road has resulted in several fatalities.