On Wednesday, 7 February, a reconstructed solar-powered water supply system was inaugurated at Lainya Town, Central Equatoria State, by Honourable Friedrick Ladu - State Minister for Housing, water and physical infrastructure and Florence Gilette the head of delegation of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

Also present were Hon. Huda Laila - State Minister for Gender, Child and Social welfare, Hon. Latiyu Paul Abbas, State Minister for Insurance and Cooperatives, Hon. Hon. Emmanuel Khamis - Commissioner of Lainya County, Aggrey Cyrus Kanyikwa - Commissioner of Yei County, Towongo Michael - Coordinator of Wonduruba Administrative Payam, along with traditional leaders and communities.

The two-year project was conducted with the joint efforts of the ICRC, local authorities and communities, and with the support of the South Sudan Red Cross. It consists of two newly drilled boreholes, equipped with solar water pumps. It covers eight neighborhoods of Lainya Town through eight kiosks, which are located at walkable distance that is easy and safe for women, children and people with disability to access.

Thanks to the upgraded water supply system, the daily water production capacity is being increased from 11 cubic meters to 116 cubic meters. The system will greatly improve the access to clean and safe water for an estimated 5,000 to 7,500 residents in Lainya.

"Due to armed conflict and violence, access to safe and clean drinking water remains a challenge for many in South Sudan. With this new water system, we hope to bring positive changes to the communities in Lainya and help create a sustainable living environment," said Florence Gillette, ICRC's head of delegation in South Sudan.

To ensure the sustainability of the new water supply system, the ICRC supported the establishment of the Water Management and Steering Committee. It will ensure that the system operates efficiently and the communities have regular and reliable access to clean water at an affordable price.

The Lainya project is an example of ICRC's efforts to support people in South Sudan affected by the armed conflict and other situations of violence. The old water system was damaged during the conflict that broke out in July 2016. The influx of displaced people and returnees added pressure on the town residents and made access to water a challenge.