Plastic bottles dumped floating in river. | File photo

A damaging investigation by the government of Central Equatoria State has found that most hotels, factories, and businesses in Juba are discharging solid and liquid wastes into the Nile River.

The ad-hoc Committee formed by Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony to investigate rampant reports of waste pollution in the city submitted its finding to the governor on Friday.

The investigation team is headed by the state Minister of Agriculture, Environment, and Forestry Lily Kafuki Paul.

In its findings, the Committee observed what it terms as great inappropriate environmental practices by some of the factories and hotel premises.

“The ad-hoc committee was tasked with inspecting the condition of the Nile river, especially on the solid wastes and liquid wastes management. But unfortunately, the report was not that well, our environment is not good as Juba City,” said Kafuki.

The businesses were found to be dumping sewage wastes into the Nile, which many Juba residents drink from and find water for domestic use.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Minister Kafuki appealed to the city residents to adhere to proper waste management.

“We are asking our citizens really to adhere to a clean environment and to manage liquid waste, especially in hotels. What we found out was not good. Almost all the hotels in Juba failed the inspection.”

The team has recommended severe penalties to be affected by the authorities of Juba City Council.

 Commenting on the report, Governor Adil reportedly directed Minister Kafuki to table the final report to the attention of the cabinet for further scrutiny before the government responds to the situation.