By James Innocent
Yei authorities called for effective coordination with humanitarian partners in order to strengthen service delivery.
The call was made during the Area Reference Group (ARG) meeting in Yei River County that brought together county authorities.
The meeting focused on the renewed calls for stronger coordination, accountability, and collective action to address pressing community challenges.
Mabe Moses, Secretary for the ARG meeting and Inspector at the Rehabilitation Commission in Yei River County, affirmed that such engagements are part of the county’s routine coordination efforts with partners operating across the region.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining regular dialogue to align priorities and improve service delivery.
The Commissioner of Yei River County Samuel Henry Malimbo called on all partners to cooperate closely with local authorities and ensure that their interventions directly benefit the community. He stressed that sustainable development in the county is dependent on lasting peace.
“Without peace, there can be no meaningful development,” the Commissioner noted, adding that achieving stability requires a shared responsibility among government, partners, and the local population.
He further urged all organizations to formalize their operations by signing Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the county and submitting their organizational profiles.
According to the Commissioner, this will enhance transparency, coordination, and long-term planning, while helping to build a positive legacy for the people of Yei.
In highlighting the contributions of development partners, the Commissioner referenced past
initiatives by agencies such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), noting that some of their infrastructure projects—along with facilities like the UNMISS compound—continue to serve the community and may potentially be repurposed for public use,including as a future university.
However, humanitarian actors also raised concerns over security and protection issues affecting their work.
Abure Moses, representing Women for Women International, pointed to the growing threat of abductions targeting humanitarian workers, describing it as a major concern for organizations operating in the area.
Lokule Santos also highlighted an increase in cases of gender-based violence (GBV), particularly in Tokori, where reports of sexual violence against women have emerged. He called for urgent interventions to protect vulnerable groups and address the root causes of such incidents.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment from both county authorities and partners to strengthen collaboration, improve security, and work collectively towards peace and sustainable development in Yei River County.