EU, WFP handover completed feeder roads to Northern Barh el Ghazal State Government

The World Food Programme (WFP) and the European Union (EU) on Wednesday officially handed over the Marialbai-Chelkou and Pantit-Anyuopjang, 26 km of feeder roads, to the state government of Northern Bahr el Ghazal. The roads will link more than 150,000 people, enhancing local trade and boosting commerce, as well as improving community accessibility, particularly during the rainy season in Aweil West County.

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The two roads are part of a wider infrastructure project funded by the EU through the Global Gateway Strategy, which was implemented by the WFP over five years and involved the rehabilitation of almost 70 km of feeder roads across the state. 

“Today’s handover here in Aweil is an important milestone for the people of South Sudan. The European Union is proud to support infrastructure projects that improve people’s lives and strengthen the country’s economic resilience,” said H.E. Pelle Enarsson, the EU Ambassador to the Republic of South Sudan. ‘These feeder roads improve connectivity, unlock agricultural potential, boost trade and enhance security. For many communities, they are a lifeline, providing better access to markets, schools, and health facilities all year round. As we hand these roads over to the authorities, it is crucial that they take full ownership of them through proper management and regular maintenance, so that they continue to benefit communities for many years to come.”

Dr Tong Lual Ayat, the Deputy Governor of Northern Bahr el Ghazal, applauded the infrastructure development projects supported by the EU its partner, WFP. “These durable investments are already making a tangible difference in people's daily lives. While infrastructure development remains a core responsibility of government, we value the continued partnership of the European Union in helping to address critical gaps,” Dr Tong said. “I am also pleased to note that the security situation in state remains stable, providing an enabling environment for further development, including the expansion of essential services such as healthcare and education.”

South Sudan has just over 20,000 kilometres of roads, only a small portion of which are paved. During the rainy season, many roads, particularly in rural areas, become inaccessible. With resources from the EU and other partners, WFP is constructing and upgrading vital public infrastructure including roads in parts of the country. 

“This road is more than mere infrastructure, it is a vital lifeline,” says Adham Effendi, WFP’s Acting Country Director. “It reduces isolation, particularly during the rainy season, lowers transport costs for users, and enhances access to markets, health facilities, and schools. Such roads will not only improve food security and drive economic transformation but also contribute significantly to social cohesion and peaceful coexistence.”

The rehabilitation of these two feeder roads is part of the ‘Feeder Roads to Strengthen Livelihoods and Resilience of Rural Communities’ project, funded by the European Union with EUR 22.1 million and implemented by WFP in four states and nine counties.

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