Admin
Wadi / Lakes
Many remote communities in South Sudan face difficulties in accessing mills for grinding sorghum, and on top of that, they have to pay exorbitant fees. The mill is a vital lifeline, essential for meeting their daily food needs.
To ease the burden on the local community in Lakes, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) provided a mill for the residents. Now, they no longer have to travel long distances, and they will only need to pay a small fee to cover diesel and maintenance costs.
This mill was installed by UNMISS as part of an initiative to support remote communities in Lakes State. It is one of many development projects aimed at enhancing the ability of local communities to adapt. The mission also trained 40 women and men on how to operate and maintain the mill. These efforts involve women actively participating in community development, which boosts their status and fosters a sense of shared responsibility.
One of the newly trained operators, Grace Marcello, shared: “Last year, I lost a pregnancy due to the physical strain of carrying a heavy bag of sorghum for long distances under the scorching sun to reach the nearest mill. I am now relieved knowing that young pregnant women in my community will be able to avoid these hardships with the new mill nearby.”
The mill, which grinds various grains such as sorghum, maize, and sesame, is designed to be reliable, low-cost, and easy to maintain. It runs on diesel and requires minimal repairs.
Christopher Murenga, Head of the UNMISS office in Lakes State, urged the local community to view the mill as a tool for empowerment, rather than just a machine.
“We encourage the community to maintain peace, which will make it easier for humanitarian assistance to reach them. By taking the first steps toward self-reliance, they are demonstrating their commitment, and UNMISS will continue supporting all community efforts to help themselves,” he said.
Arop
