By James Innocent
Emmanuel Taban Seme on Tuesday visited the Yei Electricity Power Station as part of renewed efforts to restore stable electricity supply across Yei River County.
During the visit, the Commissioner assessed the condition of the facility and received briefings from technical personnel and members of a state-appointed ad-hoc committee overseeing its rehabilitation.
According to officials, discussions focused on the current operational status of the plant, technical gaps, and the resources required to return it to full functionality.
Taban Seme said restoring reliable electricity remains a top priority for the county leadership, citing its importance for economic recovery, healthcare services, education, and household welfare.
He added that the county administration would continue working with the Central Equatoria State Government to accelerate the restoration process.
The State Ad-Hoc Committee, established by Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony, submitted its technical assessment report on February 16, 2026, following a one-week evaluation of the Yei Electricity Corporation (YECO).
The committee, led by John Bullen, Director General in the State Ministry of Housing, Lands and Public Utilities, examined the overall condition of the power station, the functionality of its machinery, and its maintenance history.
The assessment was aimed at determining the technical and financial requirements necessary to restore operations after years of inactivity attributed to conflict-related damage and neglect.
Governor Adil has directed the rejuvenation of electricity services in Yei Town, describing reliable power supply as a critical pillar for socio-economic recovery and improved public service delivery.
Residents say the restoration cannot come soon enough. Citizens of Yei have lived without public electricity for nearly five years, forcing businesses and households to rely on costly fuel-powered generators or operate without power altogether.
Young entrepreneurs, in particular, say the prolonged blackout has severely affected small enterprises such as salons, welding workshops, phone-charging stations, and internet cafés.
To protect the facility during the rehabilitation process, the Commissioner ordered the immediate deployment of security personnel to the power station, stressing the need to safeguard public infrastructure as technical work progresses.
County authorities expressed optimism that coordinated efforts between state officials, technical experts and local leaders will soon restore electricity to the town.