By James Innocent
Over 350 returnees arrived in Yei during March, primarily from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, according to officials from the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC).
This was reported during a strategic planning meeting held by the Yei River County government with national and international organizations on Wednesday.
Mabe Moses, an RRC official, highlighted the urgent need for government and partner support to assist the returnees.
He emphasized that many require essential services and assistance with resettlement.
The current planting season underscores the need for agricultural support, especially given the challenges posed by roaming cattle herders impacting farming activities across the county.
Yei River County Commissioner Emmanuel Taban Seme stated that the monthly strategic planning meetings are vital for addressing the county’s development plans for 2025 and for coordinating the efforts of all partners operating in the county.
Silas Moses, representing Finn Church Aid, affirmed that partners are actively working to support communities through business and agricultural training across Greater Yei.
The Director of Agriculture for Yei River County urged partners to prioritize training for local cooperative societies, citing a significant skills gap within these groups.
Taban Bennai, representing the International Organization for Migration (IOM), raised concerns about the organizational challenges facing some cooperatives.
He noted that issues such as inconsistent attendance at meetings and the potential for individual ownership of group registrations hinder effective partner support.