Japan, South Sudan sign agreement for construction of 4 Bridges

By Staff Writer

The government of South Sudan and Japan on Wednesday signed agreement that will pave way for construction of 4 Bridges in Juba.

Amb. Mayen Dut Wol, Undersecretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation who signed the grant agreement worth 2.655 billion Japanese Yuan (23.3 million U.S dollars) on behalf of South Sudan, said that the main objectives of the project is to improve road traffic, safety and the traffic valve extension.

The multi-year project also includes, the construction of approach roads and revetment, and consulting service.

“I am very glad to have signed this project, it’s one of the major projects the Japan government have donated to the people of South Sudan, the project considers to add valve to other various projects that have been implemented and the major one is the freedom bridge which we are going to open in May,” said Dut after the signing ceremony in Juba.

Dut requested the Japanese to help them construct roads, besides bridges across the country.

The four bridges to be constructed in Juba include, Shuhada, Albino, Salakana and Kokora bridges.

Toyama Mitsuhiro, Chargé d’affaires ad interim of the Japanese Embassy in South Sudan, said his government will continue to support the development and prosperity of South Sudan.

 “Without the improvement of infrastructure, sustainable development and economic growth cannot be achieved. Once this project is completed, the reconstructed bridges will contribute to improving traffic convenience and logistics in the capital city Juba. In addition, the Freedom Bridge over the Nile, which will be available in the coming weeks, we expect these bridges also to improve the lives of all Juba citizens,” said Toyama.

Yamane Makoto, Representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), said development of infrastructure sector is critical for South Sudan’s development.

“This new grant aid project for the construction of Bridges in Juba is also based on the urban infrastructure study conducted by JICA in 2010. As Juba urban population continues to grow rapidly, bridges connecting the city’s major roads are one of the most important issues that need to be addressed to ensure the safety of road traffic and to allow for increased traffic flow,” said Yamane.

 He added that JICA aims to support development of economic infrastructure and foundations leading to the improvement of economic growth.

Yamane also disclosed plans to commence new technical cooperation project for bridge maintenance this year.

“We strongly believe that grant aid project including Freedom Bridge, and new technical cooperation will generate a synergistic effect,” he said.