Juba:Thousands of vulnerable residents in South Sudan's Kwerjik area now have improved access to clean and safe drinking water, thanks to a newly constructed solar-powered borehole by the Turkiye Diyanet Foundation. The facility, located on the outskirts of the national capital, Juba, is equipped with an automatic pumping system and two water tanks, supplying approximately 4,000 liters of water daily.

According to Anadolu Agency, residents of Kwerjik have long relied on a nearby stream for water, which often became unsafe during the dry season due to declining water levels. The new system promises a more reliable source of clean water, reducing the community's reliance on contaminated sources and the associated health risks.

Osman Turk, the African representative for the Turkiye Diyanet Foundation, emphasized the Turkish government's commitment to supporting South Sudan. "We come from Turkiye as sisters and brothers to provide a gift in the form of a borehole. Water is essential for survival," he stated during a ceremony inaugurating the facility.

Mary Sebila, a local resident, expressed the relief the new water pump brings. "We used to fetch water from the stream, which is dirty, especially during the dry season," she said, acknowledging the significant impact of the foundation's support.

Community chief Machar Butic thanked both the South Sudanese and Turkish governments for their efforts. He highlighted that a previous water pump had broken down, forcing residents to return to using the unsafe stream.

Youth representative Albino Mayom Awer and women's representative Suzan Karaba also voiced their appreciation for the support, stressing the ongoing need for more water supplies to address the area's challenges, particularly for school children who travel long distances for water.