In South Sudan's arid landscape, Chinese peacekeepers are rewriting the story of survival for residents of Nakitum village near Juba. Members of the Chinese Infantry Battalion deployed under UN peacekeeping mandates recently completed a critical water delivery mission, addressing one of the region's most pressing humanitarian needs.
CGTN correspondents embedded with the battalion documented the operation, revealing how local families queue for hours daily at contaminated water sources. "Clean water determines whether my children go to school or spend the day sick," shared Mary Akech, a mother of four, as she received her first jerrycan of purified water in months.
The mission highlights China's growing role in African peacekeeping efforts, with engineers simultaneously conducting infrastructure assessments for sustainable water solutions. Security challenges persist – convoys must navigate terrain vulnerable to ambushes, requiring close coordination with local authorities.
This operation occurs amid broader UN efforts to stabilize South Sudan following renewed peace agreements. Analysts note such grassroots initiatives help build community trust in peace processes while addressing urgent development needs.
