Lobong Rallies Eastern Equatoria Leaders for Grassroots Reforms, Peace, and Service Delivery
By Denilson Deneki
Governor Louis Lobong Lojore has called on County Commissioners, City Mayors, and local administrators to become champions of transformation, urging them to strengthen peace, improve service delivery, and rebuild public trust in government institutions across Eastern Equatoria State.
Speaking on Thursday at the opening of a one-day leadership forum in Torit, Governor Lobong emphasized that meaningful change must begin at the grassroots level, where citizens interact directly with government representatives.
The forum brought together commissioners, administrators, and mayors from across the state to assess performance, review challenges, and enhance coordination between state and local authorities.
“You are the first face of the government that our citizens see. Your leadership should inspire hope, promote unity, and ensure that services reach every community. Transformation begins with your actions on the ground,” the Governor told participants.
He stressed the importance of effective governance at the county, payam, and boma levels, noting that it is central to achieving stability and development.
According to the Governor, local leaders must adopt inclusive approaches that actively involve women, youth, traditional authorities, and civil society in decision-making processes.
Inclusive governance is essential for sustaining peace and development in a diverse state like Eastern Equatoria,” he noted.
Governor Lobong underscored that peace and security are prerequisites for economic growth, warning that development cannot thrive in an environment marked by insecurity. Eastern Equatoria, which shares borders with Uganda and Kenya, serves as a strategic trade and transit corridor but continues to grapple with communal tensions, resource-based disputes, and the spillover effects of regional instability.
He urged administrators to prioritize conflict prevention, strengthen early warning systems, and promote dialogue at the community level.
“Your responsibility is to address disputes early, promote reconciliation, and work with all stakeholders to maintain peace,” he said.
The Governor also called for improved service delivery in key sectors, including education, health, water, and infrastructure, acknowledging that many communities still have limited access to basic services. He reiterated the state government’s commitment to peace building, improved governance, agricultural development, and youth empowerment as pillars for long-term stability and economic growth.
The forum provided a platform for local leaders to exchange experiences, identify common administrative challenges, and develop practical strategies to enhance revenue collection, strengthen coordination, and promote peaceful coexistence.
The Eastern Equatoria State continues to face development pressures linked to limited infrastructure, climate shocks, and the legacy of prolonged conflict. State officials assert that a renewed focus on accountable leadership and grassroots engagement is critical to reversing these trends and restoring public confidence in governance.
