Other issues raised included poor road networks which hinder trade and emergency services, and the absence of proper health and education infrastructure.

By Aguok Chok

A high-level delegation from Wonduruba Administrative Payam, led by Paramount Chief Noel Laila and Payam Administrator Stephen Towongo, held a critical meeting on Sunday with the Governor of Central Equatoria State, Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel. The delegation presented a list of pressing concerns affecting their community, with a strong appeal for immediate intervention.

Chief among the issues raised were insecurity caused by armed cattle herders, a deteriorating road network, and the dire state of health services in the area.

“We came with hope,” said Paramount Chief Noel Laila. “Our people are suffering.”

Echoing the sentiment, Payam Administrator Stephen Towongo added, “We want you, our Governor, to help us find solutions. The issue of armed cattle herders from Jonglei State, especially Dinka Bor, is threatening the peace of our people. They enter with guns and destroy our farms. This must stop.”

Health services in Wonduruba remain severely under-resourced. The community leaders pointed out the lack of an ambulance in the area, which has led to preventable deaths.

“Many pregnant mothers and sick people have died on the way to the hospital because there is no ambulance,” said a local youth leader. “We need urgent support.”

In addition to insecurity and health challenges, the delegation highlighted the poor state of roads, which hinders trade, access to emergency services, and overall mobility. They also lamented the absence of proper health and education infrastructure, noting that without these basic services, sustainable development in Wonduruba remains elusive.

“We want more security forces present in the Payam,” urged a community elder. “People are living in fear. We need to feel protected.”

Governor Mujung welcomed the delegation warmly and commended them for seeking dialogue.

“I welcome you, the people of Wonduruba. I have listened carefully to all your concerns,” he said. “These issues are not new. They are real, and they need solutions.”

He acknowledged the gravity of the security threat posed by armed cattle herders and assured the leaders that his administration would work closely with the national government and neighboring states to address the matter.

“This is an urgent and serious issue,” the Governor said. “We are taking it seriously and will take measures to ensure peace and safety in your community.”

Governor Mujung also promised to incorporate the community’s concerns into the State’s development agenda, emphasizing that citizen voices are central to effective governance.

“Your voices will guide our planning,” he affirmed. “The government cannot work alone. We need your cooperation to build peace, unity, and progress.”

He urged the Wonduruba community to remain calm and continue working with local authorities to uphold peace.

“We are one people,” he said. “Let us promote peace together.”

The Wonduruba delegation included a Member of Parliament, traditional chiefs, Boma leaders, religious figures, youth representatives, and women leaders. Their visit reflects the community’s commitment to peaceful engagement and collaborative development.

As the meeting drew to a close, Administrator Towongo expressed confidence in the process. “We believe in dialogue. We have presented our truth. Now we go back to tell our people that the Governor has listened.”

The visit marks a continued effort by the Wonduruba community to engage state leadership in seeking tangible solutions to the challenges they face and to chart a path toward lasting peace and development.