South Sudan plans to build new capital in former game park

JUBA, South Sudan – South Sudan’s government said it is planning to construct a new state capital in a central location in what was a wildlife park, to make the seat of government more accessible.

Government spokesman Michael Makuei said the new capital will be named Ramciel and will be located in Lakes State. He said it will be built in an area that was previously a rhino sanctuary in the forest. The land is currently uninhabited and lacks basic infrastructure such as roads and electricity.

The initial planning for the project is being funded by approximately $5 million from Morocco and will be carried out by South Korea. Morrocan and Korean engineers will visit the site this week to begin demarcating areas for roads, utilities, markets, residential areas and key government installations.