By Deng Ghai Deng
Acholi Community in Magwi County of Eastern Equatoria State has rejected Limur Multipurpose Water & Resource Development Project.
The insist that consultations were not done on project, recently tabled cabinet by South Sudan’s Minister of Water and Irrigation, Pal Mai Deng before cabinet.
In a press release on Tuesday, David Otim Okot, Chairperson of Acholi Community in Magwi County, expressed skepticism regarding the legitimacy of the project.
He cited lack of environmental and social impact assessment, coupled with inadequate community engagement as factors contribution to the objection.
“The suspicious and questionable project did not seek prior approval from the Acholi Community Leadership, and we consider this conduct deeply contemptible,” Okot stated.
Okot emphasized that without essential infrastructure in place, constructing a dam would worsen existing logistical challenges in the area, adding that the South Sudan-Uganda border dispute should take precedence before any infrastructural developments proceed.
The $98 million Dollars joint venture between South Sudan and Uganda, aimed at developing critical water infrastructure, has drawn significant criticism for its failure to engage with local leaders.
Okot further condemned the project’s promotion, alleging that it involved “opaque consultations” favoring political elites while undermining local governance structures.
He highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure improvements, noting that all three major bridges connecting Magwi to Juba are currently in disrepair.
“Rehabilitating road infrastructure and constructing bridges should take precedence to improve connectivity and access,” Okot asserted.
“We therefore disassociate the Acholi Community from this suspicious project and its potential negative repercussions. The Community shall not be held responsible for any issues arising from it,” he added.
The Acholi Community is calling on both state and national governments to redirect their efforts toward addressing critical infrastructure needs rather than advancing the Limur project without genuine consultation.
Last week, national Council of Ministers has deferred discussions on a proposed joint dam construction project between Uganda and South Sudan.
Minister Mai told the cabinet that the main objective of the project is to construct two dams aimed at improving irrigation and water supply in both Uganda and South Sudan.
This initiative includes the establishment of irrigation schemes to provide water for people and livestock.