The government of Eastern Equatoria state on Thursday launched the rehabilitation of the Torit–Kapoeta–Nadapal highway, a major route connecting South Sudan to neighboring Kenya.
The project is being undertaken by Rhino Star Construction Company under the direct supervision of its managing director, Engineer Peter Atem.
Governor Louis Lobong praised Eng. Atem for what he described as a patriotic initiative, noting that the company has committed its own resources to begin the road works.
Lobong expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of the road, which he said has left many travelers stranded and exposed to highway robberies. He recounted a recent incident in which two children went missing along the road, with only one found alive.
“This highway connects us to Kenya. After completing this section, the company will proceed to rehabilitate the Torit–Juba road,” Lobong said during the launch event. “When Eng. Atem came last month to repair two broken bridges, he found that the entire road was in poor condition. Many people were stuck, and sadly, some children disappeared — one of them died due to harsh weather. These are our children returning from Kenya.”
The governor called on communities across South Sudan to support the project by contributing fuel, food, and materials, especially those living along the highway. He urged residents and travelers to donate whatever they can, even small items, to help sustain the work and support engineers and security personnel.
“There’s no money — not here, not in Juba,” Lobong said. “Let us contribute fuel, food, or even chicken to support the workers. This road belongs not just to Eastern Equatoria but to the entire country. It links us to East Africa through the port of Mombasa. A better road will help reduce commodity prices, even more than the Nimule road.”
Engineer Atem said the rehabilitation will take approximately three months and require significant funding.
“This is a massive project. The governor gave 40 drums of fuel — about 30,000 liters — but we need at least 140,000 liters,” Atem said. “I’ve had to take loans from banks for spare parts. I’m calling on all South Sudanese, from the Red Army to TikTok influencers, to help. I don’t need money — just support in kind.”
He also appealed to the national government and the Ministry of Finance to provide assistance in rehabilitating key bridges such as Galerio, Timsah, Kinatye, and Owinykiul.
“I am in the field supervising the work myself. We’ve come with full force to make a difference in Eastern Equatoria,” Atem added.
Juma Ongodo Atana, a local chief from Abalwa Block, thanked Rhino Construction for stepping in where government resources have fallen short.
“This road serves the whole country. During the rainy season, it becomes impassable. I thank the company for reaching all the way to Nadapal,” he said. “But we need a more permanent solution — a 40-meter-wide tarmac road like Nimule’s, not just a gravel road that will deteriorate again in a few months.”