Water Weed Removal in Renk Nears Completion

(Renk) – Authorities in Renk County, Upper Nile State, say that ongoing work to remove water weeds from the River Ashier has reached 60% completion. The project which targets a 25 kilometre stretch of the river, is seen as a key step in reducing the impact of seasonal floods and improving water flow for nearby communities.

Commissioner Diing Malueth confirmed that work had progressed steadily and that roughly five kilometres remain to be cleared before the town area is fully addressed. “The work is now done up to approximately five kilometres outside town,” he said in an interview. The initiative recently gained additional support with the arrival of new equipment from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), which joined the county’s efforts to complete the remaining section of the river.

Malueth added that they had also requested more tools from the Dar Petroleum Operating Company (DPOC) and were currently waiting for approval. He noted that the remaining work would require only a light set of equipment to finish.

The River Ashier cleaning project is one of several efforts underway to deal with the effects of climate change in South Sudan, especially the increasing frequency and severity of floods.

During the rainy season, heavy rains often cause rivers and streams to overflow, damaging homes, displacing families, and cutting off access to basic services. Officials hope to allow smoother water flow and reduce waterlogging in surrounding areas by removing aquatic vegetation and blockages.

Communities in Upper Nile, including Renk, have been among the most affected by recent floods. Last year, parts of the region were submerged for weeks, disrupting agriculture and forcing families to move. Authorities now say that regular river maintenance, such as this project, is essential to long-term resilience and safety.

IOM’s involvement has provided technical assistance and equipment in helping the state adapt to its environmental challenges.

The Commissioner expressed optimism that with the additional tools and support, the remaining portion of the river can be cleared in a timely manner.