The long-awaited construction of Gur’di Bridge has brought renewed hope to residents of Western Equatoria State’s Mundri East County, with a promise of improved access to healthcare, education, markets, and essential services.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj, Mundri East County Commissioner Margaret Fozia Emmanuel confirmed that the project has officially kicked off with support from the state government, the local community, and international partners.
“This bridge connects the county headquarters to other payams and Mundri West County. For years, it has been a major challenge, especially during the rainy season when flooding makes it impassable,” she explained. “We have lost lives, including children and the elderly, because patients could not reach Lui Hospital for treatment. The road conditions have been terrible.”
According to Fozia, the county government submitted a request for assistance to UNMISS in 2021, supported by the State Ministry of Roads and Bridges.
“Fortunately, we received funding last year, and the funds were released this year to begin construction. The project is being implemented by Hopa Life Education Foundation, an organization working to ensure the new bridge is built to withstand seasonal flooding,” she said. “This project will change everything. Residents will now access the county headquarters, reach Lui Hospital for major treatment, and transport medicines and supplies. Even farmers will be able to transport their goods to Juba and other towns.”
Meanwhile, Western Equatoria State Minister of Roads and Bridges Ann Tuna told this publication that they launched the construction of four bridges across the state last month.
“In April, we launched four bridge projects across the state with UNMISS support. These include the Nambara Bridge in Ezo County implemented by RDDA, the Gur’di Bridge in Mundri East implemented by Hopa Life Education Foundation, and the Namutina Bridge in Nagero County,” she said. “We are truly grateful to UNMISS and our local implementing partners for these life-changing Quick Impact Projects, each costing around USD 50,000.”
Several community members expressed their relief and optimism. Tensa Zanuba Samson said the new bridge will save lives.
“Our women and children have suffered without access to health facilities, and pregnant women have died trying to cross,” she said. “Once the bridge is completed, we will no longer face hunger, as food and goods will flow more easily from Juba, Mundri West, and Yambio.”
Another community member, Ezborn Charles Ruben, thanked UNMISS and said the bridge will connect them to health services in Lui.
“The new bridge will ensure that we no longer have to carry sick people on our heads through the water,” he stated. “Without this bridge, we have no reliable access to markets or trade.”