And I mention in this regard that they discovered a waterway between Bahr al-Ghazal and Bahr al-Nil, and if the necessary funds are allocated, it would be good to fully open this waterway and clear Bahr al-Nil to facilitate access to the western part of the Bahr al-Ghazal province. It has been proven by traveling inland that there is a great need for launches that do not draw much water and are easy to operate and navigate in the smaller Nile branches. For this purpose, a light launch powered by a crude oil engine will be procured.

Roads and Wells All existing transportation routes remained open, and 210 kilometers of new roads were opened. Funds continued to be allocated for digging wells in the provinces of Kordofan and Kassala, and 53 new wells were dug in various directions. A suspension bridge made of steel, 130 feet long, was erected over the Baro River near Gemmeiza.

Post and Telegraph Revenues increased by £1853 and expenditures by £4781. Statistics indicate a slight increase in the number of letters, but a decrease in parcels and money orders. The reason for the decrease in money orders was the closure of the National Bank of Egypt branch in El Obeid. Work is underway to procure additional telegraph wires between Khartoum, Atbara, and Wad Madani. This will alleviate congestion on two lines where telegraph traffic is heavy. The renewal of the desert line between Bir and Suakin has also commenced. The condition of the wires is as good as can be expected, considering the damage they sustain from fires, wild animals, locusts (the white plague), and attacks by natives.

Savings Banks The establishment of savings banks was authorized on May 28th. Branches were opened in the Dongola province. However, deposits did not increase significantly until October. It became clear that it would take time for Sudanese people to fully appreciate the benefits of these banks.