By Emmanuel Mandella

The Acting Governor of Western Equatoria State, Daniel Badagbu returned to Yambio on Monday with a bold declaration: Peace is holding, unity is rising, and the future is green.

After spending nearly three months in the capital Juba, Badagbu told reporters at Yambio Airstrip that his mission was focused on three areas: integrating over 4,000 defected opposition fighters, restoring trust with international partners, and attracting new investments to rebuild the state’s economy.

“Western Equatoria went through a time that needed rescue. Today, we have relative peace, and though there are still small pockets of insecurity, we are managing them,” he said.

Rimbasa disclosed that he had secured the support of Swiss investors from Izuruchi, who are now in the state to carry out feasibility studies aimed at boosting agriculture and sustainable development.

“We are known as the Green State. Our youth need jobs, and through farming, we can bring real transformation,” he stated.

The acting governor confirmed that over 4,000 members of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In-Opposition (SPLM-IO) had defected and joined the peace process, marking a significant shift in the security dynamics of the region.

“These brothers and sisters made the choice to come home. Now, our duty is to integrate them into society, into development, and into peace,” Badagbu added.

This wave of defections aligns with recent reports by the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), which acknowledged improved reconciliation efforts in Western Equatoria and urged continued support for reintegration.

The governor acknowledged that the state had lost many humanitarian agencies and development partners in recent years due to instability and communication breakdowns.

“I went to Juba to knock on every door. We needed to rebuild relationships with the humanitarian and international community. Without them, development will stall,” he said.

His office confirmed meetings with the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, UN agencies, and international NGOs, where he lobbied for renewed support in hard-hit areas like Mundri West, Maridi, and Tombura.

Badagbu emphasized that some of his discussions in Juba were around sensitive security matters, which he could not disclose publicly, but said they were key to ensuring long-term peace.

“Peace is the only path forward. I want to send a message to those still carrying arms that the time for war is over. Western Equatoria is moving on,” he said.

With Western Equatoria historically known for its agricultural wealth, the governor’s return comes with renewed energy to tap into the green economic opportunities. A team of Swiss investors accompanying the acting governor will be assessing the region’s potential for investment in cash crops, food security programs, and youth-led agribusinesses.

“If our young people work the land, they can earn money and live in peace. This is the Western Equatoria we want to build,” he emphasized.

The governor’s message has been met with cautious optimism by locals.

“We’re hopeful,” said Margaret Yambio, a market vendor. “If the government can bring peace and opportunities, we will support it.”

As he settles back in Yambio, Governor Badagbu pledged to maintain momentum targeting every county, listening to the people, and turning peace into prosperity.

“Western Equatoria belongs to all of us. If we love one another and work together, we can be great again,” he concluded.