By Lodu William Odiya
The governor of Western Equatoria State has called on youth, women, and the business community in Yambio to uphold peace and stability.
He added that unity remains essential for development in the state.
In a statement by the press unit yesterday, the governor made the remarks during an engagement visit to Masia Market, where he met traders, women, and youth to listen to their concerns on security, unemployment, and access to services.
“Residents and youth raised concerns over joblessness, lack of vocational training opportunities, and limited economic empowerment programs,” the statement partly read.
Moses Mborimbunko, a resident of Akorogbodi, said many young people are unemployed and struggling to support their families, calling for the establishment of vocational training centers.
“The youth are stranded and jobless. Life in Masia is very hard,” he said. “We are appealing to the government to open vocational training schools in areas like Tiindoka and DDR so that those who completed Senior Four can acquire skills, get tools, and start working instead of engaging in crime.”
He also raised concerns over shortages of medicines in health facilities, saying this continues to affect communities.
Another youth leader, Sabir Isaac Gbuku, the speaker, urged continued dialogue between the government and young people and called for more youth engagement programs to promote peace and unity.
“We appreciate the governor for listening to us. Youth also need platforms like sports and music activities to strengthen peace and unity,” he said.
According to the press unit, residents from Masia also noted improved security, saying the area has become calmer compared to previous years marked by violence, looting, and gun attacks.
Emmanuel Sumaki (Hai Kuba) called on the government to improve the welfare and timely payment of security personnel, saying this is important for sustaining peace.
He also urged authorities to install street lighting in Masia to improve safety at night.
“We have many educated youths, but most are unemployed. Leaders should consult youth and women at the grassroots when making decisions,” he said.
The concerns reflect wider challenges facing young people in Yambio, particularly unemployment, insecurity, and a lack of vocational skills training opportunities.
The statement underscored that Governor Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa, in response, reaffirmed his government’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability in Western Equatoria State, noting improvements in security in several areas.
He praised the youth for supporting peace efforts and urged them to continue acting as ambassadors of stability.
“Your safety is in your hands. Avoid criminality and focus on education, skills development, and peacebuilding,” he said.
The governor added that development can only be achieved in a peaceful environment where citizens and government work together for progress.