The United Nations (UN) agencies play a vital role in the stabilisation, development, and reconstruction of nations worldwide. Their contributions have been particularly important in South Sudan. The country has suffered hardships and significant infrastructure deficits. One key area where the UN’s input has been crucial in South Sudan is in the construction industry and the development of water boreholes for villages. Universal Construction has been a player in many of these projects.
The UN agencies, notably the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), have been instrumental in various developmental projects, including those in the construction industry. These agencies have invested in developing infrastructure. Their efforts have provided funding, logistical support, and technical expertise to our local construction industry, which has been instrumental in the reconstruction and rehabilitation of key infrastructures such as hospitals, schools, roads, and government buildings.
The UN’s role extends beyond erecting physical structures. It has also been keen on capacity building within the construction industry. Training programs are designed to empower local artisans, contractors, and engineers with the necessary skills to sustain the growth of the construction industry. There is a culture of self-reliance, spurring local development and employment opportunities, and ultimately, contributing to the country’s economic growth, of which Universal construction has been a part.
Further, the construction projects undertaken by these agencies often embed environmentally friendly and sustainable practices. They promote the use of renewable energy resources, locally sourced materials, and green building techniques, enhancing South Sudan’s capacity to meet sustainable development goals.
Another significant area of focus for UN agencies in South Sudan has been the provision of clean, safe drinking water through the construction of water boreholes. A sizeable portion of the country’s population relies on unclean sources for their daily water needs, contributing to high rates of waterborne diseases. By constructing water boreholes, UNICEF and other bodies have not only improved access to potable water but also significantly reduced the incidence of disease. Universal Construction has partnered with agencies to bring water supplies to villages.
These water boreholes are more than just sources of water; they represent hope and dignity for communities. For many villages, the presence of a borehole means women and children, often tasked with fetching water, no longer have to travel long distances. This frees up their time, which can then be allocated to activities like education, which is fundamental to breaking the cycle of poverty.
Moreover, the construction of these boreholes often goes hand-in-hand with creating water committees in local communities. These committees, usually comprising locals, are trained to maintain and manage the boreholes, fostering a sense of ownership, and responsibility, and strengthening community ties.
Water projects stimulate local economies by creating jobs in the drilling, construction, and maintenance of these boreholes. The projects have also indirectly promoted the growth of other industries. For instance, access to clean water has led to the growth of agriculture, enabling communities to grow their food and enhance their food security.
The UN agencies’ work in South Sudan and the construction industry has been essential. Their efforts have set in motion a ripple effect of change that extends beyond mere infrastructure to include social, economic, and health impacts. Whether it’s through improving access to clean water, constructing key infrastructure, or providing vocational training, the UN’s work in South Sudan has been vital in laying the groundwork for a more stable, prosperous nation. While challenges still remain, these efforts provide a beacon of hope for a brighter future, of which Universal Construction is proud to be a part.