Residents Demand Return of Yei Garbage Collection Truck

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – Residents of Yei River County have renewed calls for local authorities to secure the return of the town’s only reliable garbage collection truck, saying its absence is worsening waste management and threatening public health.

The renewed appeal follows claims by Yei Town Payam Public Health Director Juma Ismail that the truck was reportedly exchanged and transferred to Juba City Council under unclear circumstances. Speaking last week, Ismail alleged that former senior county officials were responsible for the disappearance of the vehicle. Residents say the lack of a garbage collection truck has made it difficult to manage waste, with increasing piles of rubbish appearing in public spaces across the town.

Batali, a resident of Yei, said the town’s long-held reputation as one of South Sudan’s cleanest urban centers is fading due to poor waste disposal. He noted that garbage has accumulated around Dar-es-Salam Market and urged County Commissioner to investigate the truck’s whereabouts and facilitate its return.

Another resident, Susan Edward, expressed disappointment over the disappearance of the truck, saying it had previously played a key role in keeping the town clean.

Meanwhile, Malish Moses, a resident of Hai Gabat, warned that growing waste dumps in markets and residential areas could increase the risk of disease outbreaks. He called on the government to return the truck or provide an alternative solution to improve sanitation and restore cleanliness in Yei Town.