By Deng Ghai Deng
Central Equatoria State Governor Gen. Augustino Jadalla Kamilo Wani is celebrating a significant milestone, his first 100 days since on May 3, 2024, taking office.
During this period, Governor Jadalla launched an ambitious reform agenda designed to tackle financial mismanagement, streamline state operations, and enhance public services.
Under his leadership, the focus has shifted toward creating a more accountable and transparent government. The reforms aim to optimize resource allocation, improve service delivery, and foster economic growth within the state.
In a press statement on Thursday, Waakhe Simon Wudu, the governor’s press secretary, highlighted several key actions taken by the governor during his initial months in office including actions to overhaul financial management within the state.
“The Governor found that revenue-generating institutions were making unauthorized expenditures on state activities,” Wudu stated.
“He immediately banned this practice and has directed that all spending be managed by the State Ministry of Finance and Planning.”
To further ensure financial oversight, Jadalla instituted three ad hoc committees which were tasked with examining the state’s records, approved budgets, revenue collections, and investments as well as one committee to assessed the disposal of government assets, while another focused on administrative policies and human resources.
Operational and Policy Improvements
In an effort to enhance state operations, Governor Jadalla has significantly increased the operational costs of state offices. “He increased the operational costs by 500% to ensure that offices function effectively,” said Wudu. “This increase is intended to improve service delivery and ensure that institutions receive timely funding.”
Wani also banned physical cash transfers, shifting revenue remittances to bank accounts to minimize misuse of funds.
“By transferring cash to bank accounts, we eliminate the loopholes associated with physical cash handling,” Wudu noted.
Key Priorities Moving Forward
Looking ahead, Governor Jadalla has outlined several priority areas for his administration such as the focus on improving security across the state, enhancing economic empowerment, and revitalizing the education and health sectors.
His goals include creating a conducive environment for domestic and foreign investments, addressing food insecurity, and improving road infrastructure.
Jadalla’s vision also extends to agriculture and unity among the state’s diverse population.
“The Governor aims to make agriculture more vibrant by supporting farmers and improving infrastructure,” Wudu said. “Additionally, he is committed to fostering unity and addressing social divisions that have emerged from recent conflicts.”
In sum, Wudu said Governor Jadalla’s first 100 days have been marked by decisive action and ambitious plans for Central Equatoria State.
He added that governor Wani continues to implement his reform agenda, the Governor’s administration remains focused on driving positive change and improving the lives of the state’s residents.