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Bor – Al-Wadi Newspaper
His Excellency Dr. Riek Gai Kok, Governor of Jonglei State, received a high-level delegation from VNG International, a Dutch organization specialized in municipal capacity development, led by Mr. Karim Buossak.
The delegation was joined by senior officials from South Sudan’s Ministry of Water and Irrigation, in a move considered a significant step toward enhancing institutional cooperation on flood resilience and adaptation.
The visit focused on evaluating ongoing flood mitigation efforts and exploring ways to expand joint initiatives aimed at protecting communities vulnerable to river overflows and flash floods.
Mr. Buossak stated, “We came to Jonglei to review the progress achieved over the years in flood resilience. Together with the Governor, we discussed ways to institutionalize our cooperation and scale support for at-risk communities. Strengthening early warning systems is key to ensuring citizens are prepared for rising water levels.” He added, “Our priority is building sustainable capacity. Projects must leave behind strong local structures and resilient communities.”
Governor Riek expressed his appreciation for VNG’s continuous support since the liberation struggle, saying: “Your investment in building local capacity from the boma to the payam, and from the county to the municipality is commendable. We look forward to signing an official Memorandum of Understanding with the organization, facilitated by the Local Government Board in Juba, to formalize this partnership.”
The Governor also announced the upcoming inauguration of a Dutch-funded water treatment plant in Juba, a vital project supported by the Government of the Netherlands through its embassy in South Sudan, which is expected to significantly improve access to clean water in urban centers once operational.
Acting Minister of Roads and Bridges, Jacob Mayom, affirmed the state government’s readiness to cooperate with VNG, stating: “We are fully prepared to receive support and enhance our flood management systems.”
Bor County Commissioner, Ateny Pech, emphasized the urgency of this cooperation, expressing deep gratitude for this timely initiative, and confirming that Dutch support in flood mitigation will bring substantial relief and lasting benefits to the people of Bor County.
Peter Mahal, Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Water, added: “Jonglei is fortunate to host this initiative. The national government is fully ready to support it and ensure service delivery across the state. VNG’s technical guidance will empower local communities.”
The visit concluded with remarks from Hon. Aleer Goi Aleer, Acting Chairperson of the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC), who said: “Floods continue to displace communities, damage road networks, and disrupt awareness campaigns. As the Governor rightly noted, addressing these challenges requires a technical and coordinated approach.”
