By Chol D. Johnson
Central Equatoria State Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony has announced that his administration will prioritize economic recovery through agriculture, positioning the sector as the backbone of the state’s revitalization strategy.
Speaking on Wednesday during the reopening of the State Revitalized Transitional Legislative Assembly (RTLA) in Juba, Governor Adil said the government is committed to increasing agricultural production and strengthening cooperative societies.
He emphasized that the recovery plan will also commercialize livestock and fisheries while promoting tourism as an alternative to diversify the economy and boost state revenue.
“My government will therefore allocate increased budget to agriculture, livestock, fisheries, and tourism sectors, promote the use of improved animal breeds, agrobusiness, seeds, tools, and facilitate access to agricultural land and markets,” Adil stated.
The reopening marked the first session of the Third Assembly of the CES-RTLA under the theme “Strengthening Democracy, Peace and Good Governance for Sustainable Development.”
Governor Adil outlined plans to launch agricultural schemes across the six counties and Wonduruba Administrative Payam, aimed at eradicating poverty and ensuring food security.
He directed the State Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Environment to recover tractors previously supplied to counties and hand them over to local agricultural departments for effective use.
Recognizing the importance of infrastructure, Adil said feeder roads connecting productive areas to markets will be rehabilitated to stimulate trade and support growth. He noted that partial rehabilitation of the Juba–Yei–Kaya Road has already begun to ease transportation of produce.
While focusing on agriculture, Adil stressed the need for financial institutions to align their plans with the state’s recovery policy. He also underscored environmental protection, calling for afforestation and conservation programs to safeguard forests, rivers, and wetlands.
The CES-RTLA had been closed for more than a year, with no reason given for the suspension. Officially reopening the assembly, Adil welcomed members back, urging them to focus on development and governance.
Deputy Speaker and acting Speaker Sallam Alhaj Abdalla also addressed the reopening, expressing optimism that the session would bring renewed hope and stronger commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in Central Equatoria State. He urged members to uphold the rule of law and strengthen democracy.