A section of the formidable dyke protecting communities from further flooding. ©IOM/Nabie Loyce

Construction of a 17.7-kilometre flood dyke is underway around Bentiu in Unity State to address persistent flooding.

The dyke, being constructed by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and known as Site E, stretches from south of Bentiu along the Kuerbuone–Nhial Diu road, passes through the Panthiany–Dhorbor area, and extends to the Thowmangor suburb in Rubkona County.

The project is designed to enclose flood-prone areas and protect communities that have been repeatedly displaced by rising water levels.

According to IOM officials, the dyke has already helped improve food security and livelihoods by allowing residents to safely engage in fishing, a key source of income and nutrition.

Once completed, the project is expected to recover about 33 kilometres of land, creating space to host 150,000 households.

The project also aims to restore submerged water yards and government infrastructure, improve access, and encourage families displaced by floods to return home.

IOM said the initiative is expected to benefit 16 counties across five states by supporting long-term recovery and resilience.

Construction work is ongoing, with additional activities planned to strengthen the dyke’s protective capacity.