JUBA — Following the collapse of the Atepii Bridge in August 2024, residents of Owiny Ki Bul in Eastern Equatoria State in South Sudan have turned to using a local boat to cross the Atepii River.
The boat, which carries a maximum of seven people including crew members, has become the only means of transport between the two sides of the Owin ki Bul, which was cut off after the collapse of the bridge a year ago.
Oyet Joseph Charles, head chief of Owiny Ki Bul, told Sudans Post on Thursday that the collapse of the bridge has cut off residents from accessing health care facilities, farms, and schools and hindered the return of refugees.
“We were told the budget for repairs has been approved, but there is no money in the bank to start the work,” Oyet said.
Oyet said the progress on the bridge has stalled due to financial constraints.
In a temporary measure, the community installed a metallic bridge.
However, it is in poor condition—unstable, shaky, and unable to safely carry passengers.
This has forced residents to rely on boats, which are insufficient to meet daily transport needs.
Agnes Angee, a farmer in Owin ki Bul, said the situation has hit farmers especially hard.
“Most of what we harvested is rotting. We’re waiting for the rains to reduce before we can try to sell what’s left,” Angee said.
She said poor road conditions, flooding, and the lack of a functional bridge have cut off access to markets, leaving much of the harvest to spoil.
According to the county government, a survey was carried out after the collapse, and the contract to rehabilitate the bridge was awarded to Rhino Star Company.
However, the government admits it currently lacks the funds to pay the contractor, despite budget approval.
The community is now urging the government to take immediate action to restore safe and reliable access.
