UNMISS Bridges Reconnect Isolated Communities in Western Equatoria

(TAMBURA COUNTY) – Two new bridges funded by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) have been completed in Western Equatoria State, bringing renewed hope to the people of Tambura County and improving access for UN peacekeepers deployed in the region.

The bridges, built over the Yubu and Naita rivers, were officially opened this week, marking a significant development for local communities who have long faced transportation and access challenges.

These new structures aim to facilitate movement, support trade, and enhance humanitarian operations in a region affected by intermittent conflict and displacement.

UNMISS stated that the bridges will improve access to essential services for civilians, including schools, healthcare facilities and markets.

They are also expected to support the safe and timely movement of peacekeepers in their protection mandate across Tambura County, a region that has seen repeated outbreaks of violence and insecurity over the past few years.

Community members have welcomed the bridges, expressing hope that increased accessibility will open up trade routes, lower transport costs and improve the delivery of goods and services.

Traders travelling between villages and market centres had previously relied on dangerous or unreliable crossing points, especially during the rainy season when riverbanks flood.

A local farmer from Nagero Payam said, “These bridges will help us take our crops to the market in Tambura without fear of being stranded or losing our goods in the river. It will make life easier for all of us.”

The initiative forms part of the UNMISS Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) programme, which funds small scale infrastructure and capacity building projects designed to support peace and stability.

Other similar initiatives have included borehole construction, school renovations, and police post upgrades across South Sudan.

The exact cost of the bridges has not been publicly disclosed.