UNMISS Handovers Yubu Bridge to Tambura County to Support Development and Peacebuilding

The Yubu bridge is anticipated to significantly enhance connectivity, social cohesion, and access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and markets.

Residents of Tambura County in Western Equatoria State recently celebrated the handover of the newly constructed Yubu bridge, funded by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). This key infrastructure project aims to foster the voluntary return and reintegration of internally displaced persons and refugees, given its strategic location.

The Yubu bridge is anticipated to significantly enhance connectivity, social cohesion, and access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and markets. It is also expected to improve the security and protection of local civilians.

BBC Albert, a Tambura resident, highlighted the bridge's impact on daily life, saying, "For many years, the lack of a proper bridge has caused significant difficulties. It was a struggle to transport the deceased to burial sites or to get sick individuals to the hospital." The new bridge is seen as a crucial improvement for the community's mobility and well-being.

Benina Mbiko, a mother of five, expressed optimism about the bridge's potential economic benefits. "During the rainy season, crossing the river was almost impossible, which made traveling to town very challenging. This bridge will undoubtedly facilitate trade and improve our economy," she remarked.

The bridge's advantages extend beyond economic gains. Mboribamo Renzi, Paramount Chief of Tambura, emphasized that the bridge will aid farmers in transporting goods, facilitate medical evacuations, and enhance overall community security. "This bridge will support farmers, ease the movement of the sick, and improve security in our communities," Renzi stated.

UNMISS Protection, Transition, and Reintegration Officer Anthony Moudie underscored the bridge's role in peacebuilding and social harmony. "The bridge will make it easier to protect civilians and improve access for humanitarians and others. It benefits everyone in the community," he noted.

The UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan plans to continue funding small-scale projects that have the potential to significantly enhance the quality of life for local communities. The Yubu bridge represents a vital step in supporting development and peacebuilding efforts in the region.