A billboard bearing the new name “Salva Kiir Bridge” stands over the former Kubri Sitta Bridge in Wau following its official renaming. Photo: Western Bahr el Ghazal Home News.

The parliament of Western Bahr el Ghazal State has renamed a major bridge in Wau in honour of President Salva Kiir.

The bridge, formerly known as Kubri Sitta Bridge, will now be called Salva Kiir Bridge.

The state government announced the decision over the weekend, according to local sources.

Salva Kiir Bridge connects the residential areas of Hai Fahal and Hai Dinka to Wau Market, one of the state’s busiest commercial centers.

In a related development, the state government also renamed Kubri Al-Jezeera Bridge as Sharif Bridge in recognition of Governor Sharif Daniel Sharif.

Sharif Bridge links the residential areas of Al-Jezeera and Hai Lokloko in Wau.

According to state authorities, the proposal to rename the two bridges was initiated by local residential area chiefs.

The recommendation was later submitted to the state parliament, endorsed by the state cabinet, and approved by lawmakers.