By James Innocent
Some local chiefs in Yei River County, Central Equatoria State, have raised concerns over serious mobility challenges.
The chiefs expressed that due to the lack of transport means, it has always been hard for them to efficiently engage in their administrative work as well as ensure community welfare.
Speaking during a meeting organized by the Finn Church Aid (FCA) in Yei, Simon Akasa, the Executive Chief of Mugwo Payam, said chiefs lack means of transport to move within their territories.
He reiterated that the local administrators face difficulties in facilitating activities due to a lack of transportation.
The chief added that many internally displaced persons (IDPs) and returnees in Mugwo are living with relatives without any external support.
Akasa further reported that no schools are operating in the Jombu area, as civilians fear the presence of soldiers.
Charles Anyika, representing Otogo Payam, highlighted tensions between civilians and security forces, citing the deployment of a large number of soldiers in Ombasi compared to the previous South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) contingent.
He added that some schools are functioning without scholastic materials, as many educational resources were destroyed during past clashes.
Anyika also noted that many local chiefs lack proper e-skills, which hampers their administrative effectiveness.
He urged development partners to facilitate dialogue and capacity-building programs to help address the challenges facing communities.
Meanwhile, the Head Chief of Tore Payam underscored the shortage of medical facilities and schools, appealing for urgent support and motivation for community volunteers who continue to serve under difficult conditions.
Lasu Payam Head Chief, Taban Isaac Severino, reported that security in Lasu has improved following past conflicts, while Yei Town Payam Chief, Moris Modi Lowuya, said the general situation in town remains calm despite limited resources affecting peace-building initiatives.
Yei River County Paramount Chief Joseph Brown Lomosee added that chiefs lack office furniture, sanitation facilities, and mobility means, making coordination of their duties difficult.
An FCA representative, identified as Ayine, acknowledged the challenges and assured the chiefs that consortium partners would look into improving mobility, community awareness, and training programs to enhance leadership capacity.
Thomas Kitab Joseph, a member of the County Peace Committee, also called for the full activation of peace committees across all five Payams.
The meeting, convened by FCA, brought together 16 participants representing the five Payams of Yei River County to discuss key administrative and community challenges facing local governance structures.