By Garang Garang Adim
As a resident of Juba, I have come to feel a deep sense of frustration and concern every time I walk through its streets.
The sight of trash scattered haphazardly across sidewalks, along the roads, and in public spaces is disheartening. It is a stark reminder of how poor waste management practices have become an ongoing problem that not only tarnishes the city’s beauty but also threatens public health and safety. Witnessing Juba drown in garbage fills me with a sense of urgency to speak out and advocate for change.
Juba is a city with immense potential. It is a vibrant center of culture, commerce, and hope for many South Sudanese people. Yet, the current state of waste management tarnishes its image and undermines the quality of life for its residents. The streets are often congested with plastic bags, discarded bottles, food wrappers, and other refuse that seem to be ignored or neglected for too long. This accumulation of waste is not only unsightly but also dangerous. It invites pests, spreads disease, and pollutes water sources, creating a ripple of health issues that affect everyone.
The root of this problem lies in a combination of factors. Lack of proper waste collection infrastructure, insufficient public awareness, and limited enforcement of sanitation regulations all contribute to the chaos we see daily. Many residents lack access to proper garbage disposal facilities or do not have clear guidance on how to manage their waste responsibly. As a result, people often resort to dumping trash in open spaces, drains, or along the streets. The absence of a systematic approach to waste management has turned many parts of Juba into open dumpsites, which further exacerbates the problem.
What is most frustrating is that this is a problem we could address with collective effort and leadership. The city’s authorities, community leaders, and residents all have roles to play in creating cleaner, healthier environments. Proper waste collection services need to be prioritized and expanded, with regular pickups and sufficient waste bins placed in strategic locations. Public awareness campaigns are equally important to educate residents about the importance of proper waste disposal and the dangers of littering. When communities understand their role and feel responsible for their environment, positive change becomes possible.
The health implications of poor waste management are severe. Standing garbage attracts rodents, mosquitoes, and flies, which are vectors for diseases such as cholera, malaria, and dysentery. Children playing in contaminated areas are at risk of infections, and residents face increased exposure to harmful bacteria and viruses. Additionally, the foul smell and visual pollution diminish the city’s appeal, discouraging tourism and investment. It is not just about aesthetics; it is about safeguarding the health and dignity of every individual living in Juba.
Environmental sustainability is also at stake. When waste is not properly managed, it contaminates land and water sources. Plastic waste can take hundreds of years to decompose, choking wildlife and polluting ecosystems. The improper disposal of waste contributes to flooding during heavy rains, as clogged drains and open trash piles block water flow and cause dangerous urban flooding. These issues highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive waste management system that is sustainable, environmentally friendly, and community-centered.
I feel a personal responsibility to speak out because I believe in the potential of Juba and its people. We are resilient, resourceful, and capable of making positive changes. It is unacceptable that in a city full of vibrant life and hope, we are drowning in trash. We deserve better. Our children deserve cleaner streets, safer environments, and healthier communities. This is not just about aesthetics; it is about dignity, health, and the future of our city.
The solution requires a collective effort. Authorities must allocate resources and develop policies that prioritize waste management. Community involvement is crucial—residents should be empowered to participate in clean-up initiatives, waste segregation, and environmental awareness programs. Schools and local organizations can play a role in educating young people about environmental responsibility. Businesses and markets can also contribute by ensuring proper disposal of their waste and supporting community clean-up efforts.
Change may take time, but it begins with awareness and commitment. Every small action counts—disposing of trash responsibly, participating in community clean-ups, and advocating for better waste management services. When we unite with a shared vision for a cleaner Juba, we can create a city that reflects our pride, resilience, and hope for the future.
Seeing Juba drowning in trash is a stark reminder that we must act now. It fills me with frustration because I know we have the capacity to do better. It fills me with urgency because the health and well-being of our community depend on it. We cannot afford to ignore this problem any