By James Innocent
World Bank delegation visited Yei River County, Central Equatoria State to assess electricity demand and discuss a potential power rehabilitation project.
Led by Country Director Firas Raad, the delegation was joined by government officials, representatives from UNOPS, and civil society organizations.
Yei County Commissioner Aggrey Cyrus Kanyikwa stressed the critical need for power, especially for the Yei Civil Hospital, a regional healthcare facility.
Mr. Kanyikwa welcomed the World Bank’s interest and assured them of Yei’s commitment to the project’s success.
“We applaud the World Bank for selecting Yei for this electricity project. Yei is a unique place for running electricity, and the people will not disappoint” said Commissioner Kanyikwa
Additionally, he requested employment opportunities for Yei’s skilled youth.
Firas Raad, World Bank Country Manager, expressed appreciation for Yei’s acceptance of the electricity plan and highlighted plans to assess the town’s power distribution system.
“We appreciate the acceptance of the electricity plan and will look into the power distribution system for the entire town,” said Raad.
Faustino Tombe, Acting Undersecretary of Ministry of Energy and Dams commended the commissioner’s hospitality and collaboration with the World Bank.
Local Support for the Project.
Ezbon Gale, Yei Executive Director, emphasized the importance of electricity for returning residents who previously enjoyed it.
“The civil hospital has been receiving many returnees who left with electricity and would be happy to see it upon their return,” he said.
David Bala, Principal of Yei Crop Training Center, stressed the impact on agriculture and business, attracting returnees from Uganda and Congo.
“Electricity is crucial for Yei’s business communities and health facilities. With returnees coming back, Yei will be a centre for business,” said Bala.
Justin Luwate, Chairman of the Yei River County Chamber of Commerce, highlighted Yei’s existing businesses and the potential boost from electricity.
“Despite electricity challenges, Yei is a business centre with small factories and businesses. We appreciate the commissioner’s initiative” he said.
A resident, Juan Margret Lomora underlined the importance of electricity for education.
“Electricity is vital for education, powering laboratory equipment and internet access in schools and lighting for studying,” said Margret.
For his part, Father Simon Khamis, a civil society activist, called for Yei to regain its position as a food basket for the region and utilize electricity for local production.
“Yei was once South Sudan’s food basket. Electricity is needed for development, and we should be producing our organic juice,” he expressed.