By Louis Loku
Eastern Equatoria State Governor Gen. Louis Lobong Lojore has clarified that the collection of land rent, taxes, and other statutory payments from investors and non-governmental organisations is the responsibility of the government, following concerns raised by the Kor Community of Lafon County over alleged unpaid land rent by Africa Parks.
Governor Lobong made the remarks on Wednesday during a meeting with representatives of the Kor Community, who presented a position paper outlining their concerns regarding a land rental agreement involving Africa Parks, a wildlife conservation organisation operating in the area.
Addressing the delegation, the governor explained that all revenues generated from land-related fees and statutory obligations are collected by the government in accordance with the law and are used to finance public services and development programmes that benefit citizens across the state.
He emphasised that while host communities may not directly collect land rent from investors, they should instead benefit through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives undertaken by organisations operating in their areas.
Governor Lobong advised the Kor Community to engage Africa Parks on community development projects that would have a lasting impact on residents rather than focusing solely on direct financial payments.
He said Corporate Social Responsibility programmes could include the construction and rehabilitation of schools, health facilities, feeder roads, clean water facilities, and other essential infrastructure aimed at improving the welfare of communities.
The governor further urged the Kor Community to maintain constructive dialogue with both the State Government and Africa Parks to ensure that development initiatives are implemented transparently, fairly, and in a manner that benefits the wider community.
He reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to promoting cooperation between local communities and development partners while ensuring that investments contribute to sustainable development and improved livelihoods in Eastern Equatoria State.