By James Innocent
The Commissioner of Lainya County in Central Equatoria State has called on residents of the county living in Juba, Yei, Uganda, and other parts of the region to return home and actively participate in local development efforts.
Speaking to the media, Commissioner Robert Lasu said the security situation in Lainya County remains calm, urging displaced residents not to be misled by rumors circulating outside the county.
“I am urging all the communities of Lainya County and the people of South Sudan to know that the security situation is calm,” Lasu said. “There are no gunshots, and people should come back home and focus on developing their county instead of investing their energy in other places.”
The Commissioner emphasized that peace has returned to most parts of the county and encouraged residents living outside Lainya to seek verified information from local authorities rather than relying on unconfirmed reports.
Meanwhile, some residents of Lainya County have called on the government and community leaders to prioritize land demarcation and increase access to plots as a way of accelerating development.
One resident, Joseph Lasu, said development cannot be achieved without inclusive land policies.
“If other tribes of South Sudan are not allowed access to land in Lainya, development will be limited,” he said. “One community alone cannot develop a nation without others.”
Lainya County is widely known as one of the most productive agricultural areas in Central Equatoria State. Since the late 1990s, the county has played a key role in supplying food crops and supporting businesses in neighboring towns and counties.
Local leaders say improved security, clear land policies, and the return of residents could help restore Lainya’s position as a major agricultural and commercial hub in the region.