By Deng Ghai Deng
Juba is in grip of a severe water crisis as water supply tanker owners strike in protest against the City Council’s drastic price reductions.
The decision to slash prices from 5,000 South Sudanese Pounds (SSP) to 2,500 SSP within the city and 3,500 SSP per drum in the suburbs has left many residents struggling to access this vital resource, but the impact is particularly dire for individuals with disabilities.
Augustino Wudu, Chairperson of the South Sudan Union of Persons with Disabilities (SSUPWDs), voiced the urgent concerns of his community.
“The strike has affected every citizen but it has become worse for the persons with disabilities. Many of us cannot travel far to fetch water, and without it, our health deteriorates. We urge the authorities to recognize our plight and take swift action to resolve this crisis,” he stated.
Wudu stressed that access to clean water is not just a luxury but a fundamental right.
“When water tankers strike, it is not just an inconvenience; it is a direct assault on the livelihoods and well-being of common people,” he added.
Wudu’s voice resonates with many in the city who are grappling with the dual burdens of limited mobility and a lack of resources.
The ongoing strike has compounded an already precarious situation in Juba, where access to clean water has always been a challenge. With water delivery at a standstill, vulnerable residents—including those with physical disabilities—are left to fend for themselves, often forced to rely on family or neighbours for help.
As the situation worsens, community leaders are calling for urgent dialogue between the City Council and tanker owners.
Wudu emphasized that immediate measures must be taken to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive the assistance they need.
“We must not forget that water is life. It is time for the authorities to step in and prioritize the needs of all citizens, especially those who are most affected,” he urged.
As Juba waits for resolution, the struggle for access to clean water remains a pressing issue, drawing attention to the broader challenges faced by persons with disabilities in the country.