Central Equatoria State Government Addresses Unity and Land Grabbing Issues in Juba County

By Denilson Deneki

The Government of Central Equatoria State, led by Governor H.E. Augustino Jadalah, convened in Juba County to address pressing issues affecting the region, including unity among the populace, criminal activities, and the challenges posed by poor road conditions. 

During his address to the community, Governor Jadalah emphasized the importance of unity among the people, urging them to collaborate in tackling crime and infrastructure shortcomings. He announced the formation of a committee aimed at registering individuals who have migrated from their home villages to Juba, highlighting the significance of accurate population data for effective governance.

“This visit is to strengthen unity within Central Equatoria State and enhance the overall stability of Juba County,” Jadalah stated. He called on residents to respect one another and work together for the greater good of the community.

In a concerning development, Governor Jadalah cautioned local chiefs against facilitating illegal land transactions. He accused certain chiefs of issuing fraudulent land documents that contribute to rampant land grabbing in the area, further aggravating community tensions. “The community development committees have been creating divisions and unrest. I have ordered their dissolution,” he declared.

Jadalah revealed that some chiefs were endorsing colleagues from other communities to represent them in Juba, prompting his question, “Where do you get that power?” He attributed the rise in land grabbing incidents to inadequate urban planning.

Juba County Commissioner Emmanuel Tete Ezbon echoed the governor’s sentiments and outlined his administration’s plans to rectify previous oversights that left areas without adequate playgrounds or designated graveyards. He emphasized the need for proper comprehensive demarcation in Juba to prevent future land disputes.

Additionally, Tete highlighted that many markets in Juba currently lack bus parks, which complicates transportation and commerce in the region. He called for enhanced peace, security, infrastructure development, and improved service delivery across all payams, asserting that local leadership is committed to combating corruption and ensuring that resources are utilized effectively to meet the community’s needs.

The meeting underscored the government’s resolve to address the multifaceted challenges facing Juba County, as it seeks to foster a united and stable environment for its residents.