By Emmanuel Mandella

A Comboni Missionary priest from Upper Nile State, Fr. Paulino Tipo, during his visit to the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio (CDTY), has emphasized on the need for peace, agriculture, and faith-building among the Christian faithful in Western Equatoria State.

Upon his arrival in Yambio, Fr. Paulino urged the people of CDTY to uphold unity and humanity toward one another, saying faith and development go hand in hand. During his visit, he held discussions with Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro, majoring on development activities and areas of strengthening partnerships within the diocese.

As part of the visit, Bishop Hiiboro and Fr. Paulino toured several historical sites in Yambio, including the tomb of the first Azande King, His Majesty King Gbudue, who was massacred by the British in 1905. Fr. Paulino, who hails from the Royal Palace of the Cholo Kingdom, praised the Azande as one of the most honest, respectful, and hardworking communities in South Sudan.

In paying tribute to South Sudan’s liberation struggle, Fr. Paulino also visited the site of the tomb of SPLA hero and former Western Equatoria State Governor, Samuel Abujohn, to honor his contribution to the country’s independence.

His visit further extended to Anisa FM Radio and St. Mary Mother of God Catholic Parish in Yambio, where he engaged with local clergy and media personnel on issues of faith, communication, and community development.

Fr. Paulino also interacted with students and teachers on the importance of education in shaping future generations.

Comboni missionaries had been providing medical services, including support for people living with HIV/AIDS across Nzara County.

Fr. Paulino’s visit underscores the long-standing commitment of the missionaries to faith, education, and social welfare in Western Equatoria State, as they continue to promote peace, development, and humanitarian work across South Sudan.