GIZ and Welthungerhilfe Launch Dike Rehabilitation Project in Aweil West to Combat Flood Threats
In a significant stride towards flood resilience, GIZ (German Development Cooperation) and Welthungerhilfe have initiated the rehabilitation of a critical dike in Muil Akong village, Aweil West County. This project, which kicked off on Wednesday, aims to enhance flood protection for local farmland, homes, and properties impacted by recent severe flooding.
The dike rehabilitation is part of a cash-for-work initiative designed not only to bolster infrastructure but also to provide essential income for local workers and their families as they recover from the devastating impacts of recent floods.
In August, GIZ, in collaboration with partner organizations, conducted a rapid needs assessment to gauge the extent of flood-related destruction in the area. Findings revealed significant damage to farms, residential structures, road networks, and drinking water sources, displacing both residents and livestock.
To mitigate future flood risks and safeguard remaining farmland, the assessment underscored the urgent need for several interventions, including cash transfers, dike construction, and rehabilitation efforts.
This rehabilitation is part of the “Food and Nutrition Security and Natural Resource Management – FONA” project, supported by GIZ on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). The initiative also collaborates with the World Food Programme and UNICEF, focusing on empowering smallholder farmers in Aweil West and surrounding regions to boost agricultural productivity and improve nutrition through diversified diets.
Moreover, FONA emphasizes sustainable natural resource management, enabling local communities to effectively prepare for and respond to disasters. Through partnerships with established natural resource and disaster risk management committees, suitable strategies are identified to enhance community resilience against extreme climate events.
GIZ operates under the auspices of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, dedicated to addressing both immediate humanitarian needs and long-term developmental goals in South Sudan. The organization prioritizes efforts in local governance, rural development, sustainable agri-food systems, water and sanitation, peace and reconciliation, gender equality, and prevention of sexual and gender-based violence.
As communities rally together to restore infrastructure and recover livelihoods, the ongoing collaboration between GIZ and Welthungerhilfe showcases a commitment to building a more resilient future for Aweil West and beyond.
