By William Madouk
Simon Uber Mawut has assumed office of the governor of Northern Bahr el Ghazal state, amid a heroic welcome and a colossal set of responsibilities.
Steps into the shoes of his predecessor, Tong Akeen Ngor, the new governor expressed gratitude to President Kiir for entrusting him with responsibility of serving the people of the state.
“A leader is a servant of the people and it is the populace who ensure that each leader lives up to its task,” Uber said.
President Salva Kiir, in a recent change of guard, replaced Ngor with Uber, who has now been tasked to steer the affairs of the state.
“Leadership is about continuation; I will lift it from where Hon. Tong Akeen Ngor left his last brick and we will also continue on that wall as the symbol of building strong state leadership, development and social cohesion,” he added.
Outlining his vision, Uber stated that his governance of Northern Bahr el Ghazal will be guided by the SPLM doctrine of Justice, Equality, and Progress.
He stressed that the realization of justice can be achieved by detaching from tribalism, greediness, and political affiliations, which would create an environment of equality.
“Talking of Justice and equality, I take this platform to add my voice like everyone else in South Sudan and the world at large to discourage sexual and gender-based violence, sexual exploitation, child abuse and forced marriage,” he noted.
He urged the people of NBGs to fight against harmful practices “that disadvantage a certain group of people and tarnish the social fabric.”
“The most import wellbeing of the girl child is taking them to school so that they become future leader,” he echoed.
Uber vowed to personally take up the case of the late Abuk Lual, a minor who was raped, killed, and her body dumped in a latrine pit by an Arab trader in Aweil town, and ensure that justice is served.
“I want to assure the people of NBGs that I will personally take up this case and make sure that it’s expedited for justice to be serve.”
Regarding the implementation of the revitalized peace agreement, he appealed to the citizens of Northern Bahr el Ghazal to stand by it, so that elections can take place as per the agreed roadmap.
He assured that all stakeholders in the agreement will be recognized and collectively work for the common good of the people.
The governor also emphasized the importance of agriculture, urging the citizens to engage in both small and large-scale farming to enhance food security.
He promised to train farmers on mechanized farming techniques to boost productivity.
“This year has seen increase in farming both small and large scale – it is very encouraging and I believe NBGs will have considerable yield if the weather is favourable,” he said.
“I urge all to turn up for the next planting season, it is only through agriculture shall we be food secure.”
The governor also addressed the threat posed by the ongoing conflict in Sudan, assuring that his administration will strengthen border patrols to protect the communities living in the border areas.
He also pledged to work with relevant authorities to address the looming flood situation.