By Peter Kuol Kuch
Commissioners’ forum kicked off, on Monday at Bor, with focus on security and economic related issues in Jonglei state.
During the opening session, participants were enlightened about Reconstituted Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan and Tumaini talks in Kenya.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Atong Kuol Manyang, acting governor of Jonglei State reflected on importance of the forum.
“It’s a great opportunity for the government and stakeholders to deliberate on issues jeopardizing peace and living condition of local communities in the state,” she said.
The acting governor disclosed that the state has received several reports about some areas in Northern Jonglei facing hunger.
She cited that most of UN agencies are no longer delivering food aid to the locals following announcement by the American President Trump, cutting United States of America aid funding.
“There are areas in which hunger has become so rampant such as Piji and Pangak, the natural disasters such as flood had destroyed the farming last year and so now it’s difficult, we are getting that report.’’ Atong stated.
Atong also urged the commissioners and other post-holders in the state to prioritize and work for stability of the communities.
She appealed to the participants to efficiently work on and implement the resolutions and recommendations that will be made in the three-day meeting.
“Regardless of our tribes, our educational background, let us join together and work for our communities. This is not just a meeting, but let’s put our attention to this workshop in order to be able to deliver effectively hereafter in our counties.’’ Atong said.
The acting governor requested the commissioners and other local administrators across the state to discuss issues that are mostly affecting the communities such as flooding and insecurity, among others.
The Commissioners’ forum is being attended mostly by the nine commissioners, state ministers, civil society, Local Chiefs among other government officials in Jonglei State.
The Similar commissioners’ forum was held in 2022 at Jonglei State headquarters, Bor bringing in commissioners and other stakeholders from across Jonglei State.
The ongoing three- day Commissioners’ forum is supported by United Nations Mission in South Sudan, UNMISS.