JUR RIVER, August 31, 2024 — At least 530 households have been displaced by severe flooding in Jur River County of Marial-Bai Payam, sparked by torrential rains that have persisted since last month. Residents report that their crops and livestock have also been severely impacted by the floods, which they attribute to road construction activities by the African Resource Corporation (ARC).
Joseph Manok, a resident of Maluil Boma, spoke to Radio Tamazuj, expressing the dire situation. “The number of houses collapsing is rising, and the condition of those affected is worsening because most crops have also been destroyed,” said Manok. He further accused the construction company of exacerbating the flooding by blocking waterways and failing to install proper drainage culverts.
Manok has urged ARC to create channels that would allow floodwaters to recede from the affected areas.
In response to the escalating crisis, residents have called on humanitarian organizations and the State Government for urgent assistance, including the provision of mosquito nets and essential healthcare services.
The areas most affected include Maluil, Kwaj-Ayok, Madhuk, Kuol-Khor, and Akacyic. Atong Thiep, another resident, highlighted the health impacts, noting that many children are bedridden due to cold-related illnesses. “All our houses have been destroyed. We keep a close watch on our children because they are at risk of drowning,” said Thiep.
Western Bahr el-Ghazal Agriculture Minister Valentino Akec, who visited the affected regions, confirmed the widespread devastation caused by the floods. He assured residents that his ministry, along with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), would assess the situation within two weeks to determine the necessary aid.
Minister Akec also stated that the State Government would take action to ensure the affected populations receive support. He added that they would engage with the ARC to address the issues blamed for triggering the floods.
