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Mangalla Sugar Cane Fields
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The Mangalla Sugar Cane Fields are located in Central Equatoria State, north of Juba, along the banks of the White Nile. The area was identified as a handy site for sugar production due to its fertile soils and reliable water supply from the river. The project's history dates back to the 1970s, when plans were developed for a large sugar factory and extensive plantations. The objective was to make South Sudan self-sufficient in sugar supply and to generate employment in the manufacturing sector. However, as a result of long-term conflicts, the implementation of this large-scale project was stalled. Today, the fields are partially used by small-scale farmers, while plans to revive the industrial sugar scheme with foreign investors are frequently discussed. The region has excellent agro-climatic conditions for growing sugar cane with a high sucrose content.
- Location: South Sudan
- Nearby: Terekeka (25 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 30 | 32 | 32 | 31 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 29 |
| Rain mm | 5 | 9 | 27 | 58 | 131 | 116 | 124 | 144 | 132 | 111 | 51 | 29 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The sugar cane fields near Mangalla form the industrial backbone of the region, using Nile irrigation to ensure a steady raw material supply for sugar factories. They shape the landscape and are the most significant employer in the rural area.
Visiting
The plantations are not open to the public but can be viewed from surrounding roads. Viewpoints along the irrigation canals provide glimpses of field work, though entering the cultivated areas is not permitted.
Where to view it
The best view of the sugar cane fields is from the main road between Mangalla and Juba, which runs directly past the plantations. From the bridge over the irrigation canal, you get a wide panorama over the green cultivated areas.
Local products
Raw sugar and molasses are the main products of the region, often available at simple roadside markets. Seasonally, fresh sugar cane stalks for chewing are sold as a popular local snack.
Active season
The main sugar cane harvest occurs during the dry season from November to March, when fields are cut and transported to the mill. Activity on the plantations peaks at this time, with transport vehicles constantly on the move.
Nearby
A visit to the sugar cane fields can be combined with a trip to the Nile riverbanks and traditional fishing villages. The town of Mangalla itself features basic accommodation and markets that provide insight into rural life.
Geography
Facts
- The plantations are located about 50 km north of the capital city, Juba.
- The scheme was first conceptualized in the 1970s.
- The White Nile provides the essential water for irrigation.
- The region is characterized by highly fertile alluvial soils.
- The project aims to produce white industrial-grade sugar locally.
- Foreign investors have shown interest in reviving the sugar mill project.
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Notable places around
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What are the Mangalla-Zuckerrohrfelder?
These are large agricultural areas in the region used for sugarcane cultivation.
Are the fields accessible to visitors?
The fields are private agricultural land and typically not open for tourist tours.
When is the best time to visit the region?
The dry season from December to March has the most pleasant weather conditions.
Are there local markets nearby?
Regular local markets take place in the surrounding settlements near Mangalla.
What characterizes this area?
The region is known for its fertile soils along the White Nile.
Mangalla Sugar Cane Fields: where is it located?
Mangalla Sugar Cane Fields is located in South Sudan.
Mangalla Sugar Cane Fields: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Mangalla Sugar Cane Fields: why is it worth visiting?
The Mangalla Sugar Cane Fields are located in Central Equatoria State, north of Juba, along the banks of the White Nile.
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Nearby cities
Juba
Juba is the capital and largest city of South Sudan, situated on the banks of the White Nile.
Yei
Yei is a thriving commercial town in the southwest, known for its agriculture and proximity to Uganda and DR Congo.
Terekeka
Terekeka is the center of the Mundari people on the White Nile, north of Juba.
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Lainya
Lainya is an agricultural town on the road between Juba and Yei in Central Equatoria.
Kajo Keji
Kajo Keji is a town near the Ugandan border, known for its agriculture and educational institutions.
Morobo
Morobo is located at the tri-border of South Sudan, Uganda, and DR Congo, serving as an important trade point.
History & landmarks
Juba Stadium
The multi-purpose stadium in the capital city, home to the national football team.
University of Juba
The country's premier academic institution with historic buildings in the heart of the capital.
Jubek Memorial
A monument honoring Jubek, a legendary Bari figure after whom the capital city is named.
National Legislative Assembly
The parliament building of South Sudan, where the country's laws are enacted.
All Saints Cathedral
The main Anglican cathedral in Juba, a central place of Christian worship in the country.
Nyakuron Cultural Center
A major venue for arts, music, and cultural festivals in Juba.
Old Juba Bridge
The first permanent bridge across the Nile in South Sudan, a historic landmark in Juba.
John Garang Mausoleum
The final resting place of Dr.
Nature
More places
Mangalla Sugar Factory
A major industrial complex for processing sugarcane grown in the surrounding plantations.
Mongalla
The former provincial capital during Anglo-Egyptian rule on the White Nile.
Mongalla Game Reserve
A protected area along the Nile, known for its antelope populations and as a resting point for migratory birds.
Lado Enclave
A former territory of the Congo Free State, situated on the western bank of the White Nile.
🗺️
Mount Lado
A distinctive inselberg located north of the capital city, Juba.
Terekeka Fish Processing Center
An industrial center for the storage and processing of fish from the White Nile.
Terekeka Cattle Camps
The traditional cattle camps of the Mundari herders are central places of culture and economy, characterized by huge cattle herds.
Gondokoro Trading Post
A major 19th-century trade and expedition hub for Nile explorers.