By Aguok Chok

The State Governments of Cental Equatoria State and Western Equatoria have agreed to establish a dry port and deepen cooperation in an effort to address the challenges affecting their constituents.

During a courtesy meeting in Juba on Monday, the Governor of Central Equatoria State, Emmanuel Adil Anthony and his Western Equatoria counterpart, Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa, discussions various issues of public interest, including strengthening local governance structures, improving cross-border trade, supporting agricultural activities, and promoting unity between the people of Central and Western Equatoria States.

In a major outcome of the meeting, the two governors agreed on the need to establish a dry port in Central Equatoria State.

The proposed facility is expected to serve as an agricultural hub for locally grown produce, helping farmers to access better markets and reduce post-harvest losses.

“Both Governors consenting to establish a dry port in Central Equatoria, soon to act as an agricultural hub for locally grown produce and exert efforts in mobilizing the grassroots as part of embarking on massive preparations for the forthcoming December 2026 general elections,” noted a statement from the Office of Central Equatoria State Governor.

Governor Adil reaffirmed his commitment to building a strong working relationship between the two states.

He also extended his warm congratulations to Governor Badagbu on his recent appointment as Governor of Western Equatoria State and pledged his administration’s full support to working collaboratively with Western Equatoria to bolster security and regional cooperation.

The leaders emphasized the importance of peace and stability as a foundation for development. They noted that cooperation between neighboring states remains key to improving trade, food security, and service delivery.

The governors said closer coordination would also help address shared challenges, including transport, market access, and security along common borders. They pledged to maintain regular consultations to ensure that resolutions made during the meeting are implemented effectively.

They further stressed the need to mobilize communities at the grassroots level to promote unity and peaceful political participation ahead of the December 2026 general elections. According to the leaders, early preparation and civic engagement will be critical to ensuring a smooth and credible electoral process.

The visit marks a renewed spirit of cooperation between the two States with both administrations expressing readiness to work together for the benefit of their citizens.

The growing partnership could significantly enhance agricultural productivity, regional trade, and long-term stability in the greater Equatoria region.

As the two governors continue to strengthen ties, their joint commitment signals a shared vision for development, peace, and inclusive governance across their states