By James Innocent
Central Equatoria State Governor Emmanuel Adil Antony has urged residents of Mugwo Payam in Yei River County to embrace peace and reject criminal activities.
Governor Adil made the remarks after stopping in Mugwo Payam while returning from his tour of Morobo County.
He was welcomed by hundreds of residents, community leaders, and local authorities. The visit also provided an opportunity for the Mugwo community to raise concerns about the incomplete construction of a new health facility building.
Cosmas Amono, Chairman of the Mugwo Health Care Center Development Committee, said construction had stalled because the community lacked some of the materials needed to complete the building.
“We raised the foundation as a community, but we are now stuck,” Simon Akasa said, appealing to the governor and state government to support the completion of the facility.
Akasa said roofing remains one of the major challenges facing the project and called for government intervention to ensure the health facility becomes operational.
The community also raised concerns over cattle allegedly looted by Dinka Bor cattle herders, urging the government to address the issue and help protect local livelihoods.
Residents said agriculture remains the main source of livelihood in Mugwo Payam and called for increased support to farmers to strengthen food production and household incomes.
Governor Adil commended the people of Mugwo for taking the initiative to improve infrastructure in their community.
He said communities that initiate development projects demonstrate their commitment to improving their own lives and that government support can help complete projects that communities are unable to finish on their own.
The governor also warned armed groups against targeting civilians and urged them to lay down their weapons and join the government and peace process.
He condemned criminal activities, including the reported looting of clothes, motorcycles, and other personal belongings, saying such acts undermine peace, development, and the security of ordinary citizens.
Governor Adil called on residents of Mugwo and the wider Yei area to remain peaceful and united as the country moves toward elections.
Yei River County Commissioner Samuel Henry Malimbo also commended the people of Mugwo Payam for welcoming the governor and demonstrating their commitment to development.
The governor’s visit highlighted the community’s efforts to improve basic infrastructure while drawing attention to continuing challenges related to health services, agricultural support, livestock security, and civilian protection in the area.