By Alex Digi
Western Equatoria State government, in South Sudan has procured 11 vehicles for the state constitutional post holders to ease their mobility while discharging their duties.
The state government used its own local revenue to buy the 11 vehicles.
Speaker of the state Legislative Assembly, deputy speaker, two advisers, five ministers, the state Secretary General, and the State Coordinator in Juba are among the officials, benefiting from the vehicles.
During handover of the new cars to the authorities, governor, Gen. Alfred Futuyo Karaba stated that the state is working hard to pool its resources to acquire transportation for officials.
“We came into government at a critical time; there is no money, the national government couldn’t help us with mobility, and we are just struggling with the local revenue we are collecting from the state,” he said.
Governor, Futuyo urged the beneficiaries to use the vehicle as transport to the office.
He hinted that there is hope to get a V8 some other time.
“I promised that I would not buy a V8 while my ministers are in office,” the governor moaned.
He cautioned those who received the vehicle against misusing them, saying they should make sure they offer service to the community.
He called on others who didn’t get, to should be patient and wait until the state gets more resources.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Gender and Social Welfare, Cicilia Anigunde, who was among the recipients of the cars, appreciated the state leadership for providing them with means of mobility.
Hon. Anigunde said she has been walking on foot and by boda boda to her office, a challenge that has made her strong.
“It is my pleasure for us to learn and move through difficulties, and this is what makes us do things for our communities and be exemplary,” she said.
Mrs. Anigunde urged her colleagues who have received the cars to use them appropriately and render effective services to the citizens.
The vehicles were given in the presence of state officials, including the governor, deputy governor, state assembly speaker, advisors, ministers, and other officials.
The cars purchased are Japanese-made Toyota Harriers.
However, the amount of money used for purchasing the cars is not revealed.