Energy Minister labels Fula Dam a ‘powerful engine’ for national growth

2026-03-28 - 11:05

National Minister of Energy and Dams Agok Makur has described the proposed Fula Dam as a “powerful engine” for South Sudan’s economic transformation, stating that the project sits at the very heart of the country’s journey toward long-term stability. Minister Agok Makur conducted a field visit to Fula Falls on Friday, March 27, accompanied by a delegation from the European Union. The Fula Dam, also known as the Fula Rapids Hydropower Project, is a long-proposed hydroelectric initiative located in Nimule, Eastern Equatoria. Speaking during the visit, Minister Makur said the site holds significant potential for hydropower generation, describing Fula Falls as one of the most powerful waterfalls in South Sudan. He noted that the visit aimed to provide partners with firsthand insight into the project and mobilize support. The minister acknowledged support from international partners, including the World Bank and the African Development Bank, adding that the government has already completed a feasibility study and is now working on an implementation strategy. “Today we visited the Fula Falls in Nimule, where I stand now with the site behind me where the Fula Dam is planned to be built. The Fula Falls is one of the most powerful waterfalls in South Sudan,” stated Makur. “We came today with the European Union Ambassador so he could see the situation firsthand and garner support for South Sudan to build the dam. I also thank all the supporters of the South Sudanese government, including the World Bank, the African Development Bank, and the European Union.” “I want to assure the citizens that what we say must be translated into action. That’s why, as Minister of Energy, I came to Nimule to see this great project. The government has conducted a feasibility study and is now developing an implementation strategy.” The Head of the European Union delegation, Ambassador Per Enar Enarsson, called for increased attention to the project, reaffirming the EU’s readiness to support dam construction and broader energy initiatives. Ambassador Enarsson described Fula Falls as both a place of natural beauty and immense power, noting that while South Sudan faces challenges, long-term development projects like the dam require forward-looking planning. “It’s a place of natural beauty, but it’s also a place of power. And we came here to see. We know that there have been plans to develop this electricity generation from this place. We wanted to see it with our own eyes,” said Ambassador Enar Enarsson. “Of course, it’s difficult sometimes in a country which is in conflict to look ahead. Peace is the first thing that comes to mind, but we shall not only think about short-term things.” “To develop a project here will take many years for it to become productive. So, we need to think ahead when this country has found a way to peace, and we can look more into the future. I think that’s why we are here to see what is on offer. And thanks for bringing us here, and it’s been a very warm welcome.” The Mayor of Nimule Municipality, Cesar Longa Fuli, underscored the importance of Fula Falls, highlighting its potential to generate electricity and accelerate development at both state and national levels.