UNMISS Reviews Infrastructure Work Done in 2025

(JUBA) – United Nations peacekeepers working with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan focused on building and repairing basic infrastructure in 2025 to help people stay connected, support trade and reduce the effects of floods across the country.

UNMISS engineers worked on many kilometres of roads that are important for daily travel and the movement of goods. These roads help humanitarian aid reach communities and also allow traders to move food and other supplies more easily. Better roads reduce travel time and make it easier for people to reach markets, health centres and schools.

Several key gravel roads received attention because of their importance to local communities. These include the road linking Malakal to northern parts of Upper Nile and busy routes in and around Aweil, Leer and Gumuruk. Many communities depend on these roads for supplies and access to services.

Heavy rains and changing weather patterns made the work more difficult. In some areas, roads were damaged quickly and high water levels caused serious flooding. Places such as Pibor and Bentiu were badly affected, with some families forced to move to higher ground after their homes were damaged or destroyed.

To reduce the impact of floods, UNMISS engineers built and repaired dykes in areas at risk. These efforts helped limit the spread of flood water and are estimated to have helped keep about 300,000 people from being displaced. Keeping families in their homes helped protect livelihoods and reduce pressure on host communities.

During the rainy season, some roads became very difficult to use despite repairs. In such areas, UNMISS focused on improving airstrips so that planes could continue to carry passengers, cargo and medical patients. In places such as Kuajok, improved airstrips helped maintain access when roads were closed.

Access to clean water was another concern. In areas where unsafe water increased the risk of diseases such as cholera, UNMISS supported the building of solar powered water towers. These systems provided safer water and offered a solution that communities can rely on for many years.

Peacekeepers also took part in clean up activities with local residents. These campaigns helped reduce the risk of disease and improved public places such as schools, health facilities and neighbourhoods. Working together helped build trust between communities and peacekeepers.

In cooperation with the United Nations Mine Action Service and other agencies, UNMISS supported land clearance work that allowed families to move from temporary shelters to permanent homes. Safe land also made it possible for people to farm and improve their food supply.

While future climate challenges remain uncertain, UNMISS says it will continue to support communities through practical engineering work. Roads, dykes, airstrips and water projects remain important in helping people move, trade and live more safely across South Sudan.

Summary of Key UNMISS Engineering Work in 2025