Officials say the machine, delivered on Wednesday with support from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), will provide critical relief to residents who have endured months of flooding.
County Commissioner Juach Arok Juach confirmed the machine had been delayed for nearly a year due to transport and road access challenges but has now arrived in full, along with technicians to install and operate it.
“We are happy that this machine has finally reached us. It will be deployed immediately to pump out water that has submerged homes, offices, and public areas in Panyagor,” Juach said. “Our people have endured very difficult conditions because of stagnant water. This gives us hope that normal life can return.”
Panyagor has been among the hardest-hit towns in Jonglei, where seasonal flooding has displaced families, cut off roads, and damaged public facilities. Stagnant water has created breeding grounds for mosquitoes and increased the risk of waterborne diseases, worsening an already fragile humanitarian situation.
Residents welcomed the arrival of the machine, expressing optimism that it would help restore access to roads, schools, and health centers. Many families who had been forced to relocate due to flooding are now hopeful of returning to their homes.
Commissioner Juach emphasized that while the new equipment represents progress, long-term solutions are still needed.
“This machine is a step forward, but the people of Twic East need more lasting support. We call on the government and humanitarian agencies to expand assistance to other affected parts of Jonglei,” he said.
Local leaders have also urged investment in infrastructure such as dykes, drainage systems, and road rehabilitation to protect communities from recurring floods that devastate the region year after year.
For now, however, the installation of the pumping machine is being hailed as a turning point for Panyagor. If it operates as expected, it will not only reduce floodwater levels but also help restore livelihoods, improve health conditions, and ease the daily struggles of thousands of residents.
