The United Nations (UN) Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) developed the artificial lake through a quick-impact project designed to address water shortages and reduce cattle-related conflict.
Competition between farmers and cattle keepers over water and grazing land has contributed to recurring tensions, violence and displacement in the dry region.
The reservoir provides farmers with water for crops while reducing the need for cattle keepers to move livestock onto farmland in search of water. “This project is particularly close to our hearts as it directly addresses both humanitarian challenges and conflict triggers, and the impact is already visible,” UNMISS Civil Affairs Officer Lawson Assagaya said.
UNMISS selected a location far enough from agricultural land to limit competition, but close enough to provide farming communities with access to water.
New cattle camps have already formed around the reservoir. The development is also encouraging displaced residents, including members of the Wonduruba Mundari community, to return home. “It’s devastating to see how our peaceful people end up fighting over scarce resources and lack of coordinated migration patterns rather than working together,” Cattle Keeper John Kenyi said.
“Every day I hope for unity to return.”
Farmers and cattle keepers worked together during construction after workers found no road capable of carrying heavy machinery to the site. Community members used tools to clear and build an access route. “You could really see how energised everyone was about this new water source,” Point Investment Company Project Manager Juman Emmanuel said.
Workers also discovered an underground water source that naturally began filling the approximately 3 200-square-metre reservoir.
The discovery removed the need for a planned cement lining, which could have contaminated the groundwater. The underground supply will allow the reservoir to replenish during periods of limited rainfall.
Construction was completed within one month.
UNMISS said the project had already delivered benefits beyond water access by bringing farmers and herders together around a shared resource.
–UN/ChannelAfrica–
