By Emmanuel Mandella

The Deputy Governor of Western Equatoria State, Justin Joseph Marona, has called on government leaders to recognize the value of human life by strengthening service delivery, warning that gaps in critical sectors such as healthcare continue to affect communities across the state.

Marona made the remarks on Sunday while addressing worshipers during the morning English service at the Naagori Parish of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan in Yambio, where he used the church platform to reflect on leadership responsibilities and the importance of improving essential services for citizens.

Speaking to the congregation, the Deputy Governor said the message delivered during the church sermon about the dignity and value of human life should serve as a guiding principle for leaders entrusted with public responsibilities.

“Today’s service reminds us that every human life has value,” Marona told the congregation. “As leaders, this teaching must guide us in the way we serve our people because leadership is not about power but about protecting and improving the lives of citizens.”

He emphasized that genuine leadership must translate into practical action that addresses the everyday needs of communities, particularly in sectors such as health, water, and security.

During his address, Marona also drew attention to serious challenges facing the health sector in Yambio, citing the absence of essential medical facilities at the main hospital in the state capital.

“I heard from the preacher today that there is no X-ray machine at Yambio Hospital and there is also no blood bank,” he said. “These are critical services that our people need, and together with His Excellency Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa, the Governor of Western Equatoria State, we will try our best to see how we can support and improve these services.”

The Deputy Governor acknowledged that shortcomings in service delivery partly stem from leadership failures, noting that government officials must take responsibility for addressing the needs of the people they serve.

“Partly, it is us leaders who have failed to plan very well for our people,” Marona admitted candidly. “I say this before God Almighty and before you here in the church because leadership must be honest and accountable.”

Despite the challenges, Marona said the state government is working to identify solutions that will improve essential services across Western Equatoria.

He said the administration is prioritizing key sectors including healthcare, access to clean drinking water, and security in order to ensure that citizens receive the basic services necessary for a dignified life.

Observers say the Deputy Governor’s remarks reflect growing concerns among residents about the state of public services, particularly in the health sector where medical facilities often lack equipment and supplies.

The issue of healthcare access has become increasingly urgent for many families in Yambio and surrounding areas who depend on the state hospital for treatment.

Marona also used the opportunity to call on citizens to support government efforts by maintaining unity and working together to build a stronger and more peaceful society.

“I call upon the sons and daughters of Western Equatoria to remain united and avoid fighting among ourselves,” he said. “When we stand together, we can overcome challenges and move our state forward.”

He further encouraged Christians and residents to continue praying for the leadership of the state so that wisdom and guidance can help address the complex challenges facing the region.

“Pray for the Governor and all leaders so that God grants us wisdom to guide this state through these difficult times,” he added.

The Deputy Governor concluded by urging citizens to apply the moral teachings of the church in their daily lives, noting that positive change in families and communities can gradually transform the entire state.