By Peter Kuol Kuch
Over the weekend, Dr. Riek Ghai Kok, the Governor of Jonglei State, met with the World Food Programme (WFP) Deputy Executive Director to discuss areas of collaboration.
The talks focused on supporting recovery and building resilience for the people of Jonglei State.
The high-level meeting covered a wide range of issues, including food security and livelihoods, market access, emergency preparedness response, disaster risk management, and nutrition.
During the consultative meeting, Governor Riek Ghai acknowledged the significant services offered by the World Food Programme in Jonglei State and beyond, tracing their support back to the South Sudan liberation struggle.
“WFP has been with us before independence and remains a reliable partner to Jonglei and South Sudan,” Dr. Riek said. “We are confident that a new strategic framework will deepen our cooperation and deliver transformative outcomes for our people.”
Meanwhile, Mr. Carl Skau, the Deputy Executive Director for the World Food Programme, pledged WFP’s readiness to support the flood-affected population in Jonglei. He also committed to boosting farmers’ capacity by distributing seedlings and enhancing school-feeding programs across the state.
“Through our interventions, we aim to empower communities, strengthen food systems, and reinforce the foundations of resilience and self-reliance,” said Skau.
During the meeting, both parties vowed to maintain their mutual commitment to achieve the frameworks established between WFP and the Jonglei State government.
Pangak, Twic East, and Duk are among the areas most severely affected by floods across Jonglei State.