Aerial view a section of Juba City. Photo: Courtesy

The Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Michael Changiiek Geay, has announced a nationwide urban modernization initiative scheduled for launch on June 9, aimed at transforming South Sudan’s cities to meet regional and international standards.

Changiiek announced the plan after briefing Vice President and Chairperson of the Economic Cluster, James Wani Igga, on the ministry’s urban development agenda. He also invited the Vice President to officiate the launch of the initiative.

During the Wednesday meeting, Igga directed the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development to develop South Sudan’s cities in line with other modern urban centers in the region.

He called for improved urban planning, infrastructure, and housing systems to support economic growth and improve living conditions.

The minister said the program will begin in Juba before expanding to other cities across the country.

“His Excellency the Vice President will officially launch this program on Tuesday, June 9, so that we kick off as a country and make sure that we transform our cities. This project will be coordinated with our partners, especially the World Bank, which has taken the lead and conducted surveys, assessments and fieldwork,” Changiiek said.

He said the initiative will be implemented in partnership with the World Bank, which has already completed surveys, assessments and field studies to support the project.

The program is expected to improve urban infrastructure, planning and public services as part of broader efforts to modernize the country.

Changiiek said the launch will mark the beginning of a long-term effort to transform South Sudan’s urban centers into modern and organized cities.