So far, more than five planes have crashed either during landing or takeoff.
The issue here is that our government is not taking this matter seriously, leaving the citizens of South Sudan at great risk. Just last year, almost three planes crashed in Unity State.
It is by God’s mercy that more people were not killed. Last year, there were several incidents of plane crashes, including one involving Supreme Airline, and in 2020, a cargo plane crash resulted in five fatalities. All of this happens because the government does not prioritize the lives of its citizens.
On Wednesday of this week, 20 people died in a plane crash, 16 of whom were South Sudanese nationals. One thing that the country needs to address is the need for proper assessment of the airlines that operate these planes and their models, determining whether they are safe for passengers.
Many of these aircrafts are outdated and have been sold to South Sudan because of lack of knowledge and respect for the law, that allows businesses to profit from unsafe goods that cannot enter any international airport. This means South Sudan is becoming a dumping ground for expired and hazardous products.
The ongoing political insecurity in the country continually puts citizens’ lives in danger. The insecurity on the roads, coupled with limited accessibility in certain states, has forced many South Sudanese to take risks by using these unreliable planes.
It is hard to believe that with the abundant resources South Sudan possesses—such as oil, minerals, and timber—we cannot acquire at least one reliable airplane for the country. I wonder how our leaders will be remembered in South Sudan’s history if they continue to prioritize their corruption over improving conditions for future generations. It is truly unfortunate.
A country that neglects the safety and future of its citizens is essentially a dead one. The children raised in such an environment will inevitably suffer the consequences, and many may end up in the diaspora, judged harshly based on their parents’ leadership.
While our leaders enjoy traveling abroad in well-maintained planes from other countries, do they truly believe that corruption does not exist in those places? They must take caution and implement necessary changes before the situation worsens. We can set an example, just like the leaders of other countries. It is not too late; we still have a significant opportunity to make a positive impact.
I appeal to the government to improve security across the nation so that people can travel safely by road without fear of attacks. Our leaders must understand the circumstances faced by their citizens.
God Bless South Sudan
Be the spectator.