After weeks of warnings, the South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority (SSCAA) has commenced the forceful removal of numerous illegal shipping containers and makeshift stalls that have occupied Juba Airport’s land for years.
This cleanup follows the elapse of final ultimatum issued last Friday by SSCAA Director General John Woja Elinana, who stated that the authority’s patience had run out.
On Monday, heavy machinery were observed removing the containers, marking the beginning of a large-scale operation to clear the area.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Mr. Woja warned that force would be employed to clear the containers and businesses if voluntary relocation did not occur within the specified time frame.
“The airport administration had provided more than adequate time for the occupants to voluntarily relocate their operations and belongings,” Mr. Woja said.
He expressed disappointment that many of those warned had chosen to ignore the directive, necessitating enforcement measures to reclaim the airport land.
The clearing operation is a crucial part of comprehensive plans to modernize and expand Juba International Airport’s facilities and infrastructure.
These ambitious initiatives by the SSCAA aim to bring the airport into compliance with international aviation standards and regulations, ultimately attracting more global airlines and enhancing South Sudan’s connectivity to international markets.
The efforts are a government’s broader commitment to improving the country’s aviation infrastructure and establishing Juba International Airport as a regional hub capable of supporting increased passenger traffic and cargo operations.
It is viewed as a vital first step in creating the necessary space and security conditions for the planned expansion and upgrade projects.
