By Alan Clement
The leadership of Tore Payam, Yei River County of Central Equatoria state has called for the governor’s intervention to address challenges on security and poor infrastructures.
During a visit to the office of the governor on Wednesday, the leaders outlined series of concerns including insecurity and deteriorating infrastructure among others.
The community leaders also informed the governor about frequent ambushes along Yei-Tore Road by armed groups which continues to threaten movement and trade in the region.
“The condition of the road from Yei to Tore Payam is very bad,” said Ali Hassan Juma, Chairman of Tore Community.
“We call on the state government to rehabilitate the Yei–Tore Road to facilitate regular patrols and restore safe passage for traders and travelers,” he added.
Ali also decried unchecked movement of cattle herders from other communities such as Terekeka, Bor and Ambororo which are reportedly destroying farms and natural vegetation.
“We have seen the presence of many cattle in the Payam, and we call on the Governor to take a swift action to regulate cattle migration and protect both livelihoods and the crops from irreversible damage.”
The community also expressed dissatisfaction with ongoing wildlife conservation activities in Lantoto National Park, citing lack of community involvement in decision-making processes that affect their ancestral land.
On his part CES Governor Rabi Mujung acknowledged the concerns of the leaders and assured them of the state’s commitment to finding practical solutions while also emphasizing the need for unified efforts to foster peace and improve service delivery across the region.
He called on the communities to focus on peace and unity as state government embark on developmental projects.
“Let us unite in purpose and commitment to build lasting peace, strengthen unity and enhance security throughout the State,” urged governor Mujung.
He reaffirmed government commitment toward initiatives meant to boost Agriculture.
In the same event a member of Parliament along with Tore community leaders raised an alarm over the dire health situation in the Payam.
Victoria Nasra Augustino, a Member of the Council of States, said the lack of healthcare infrastructure is putting lives at risk, particularly women and children.
“Women in the area are at serious risk, especially during labor, because there is no hospital. There is also no clean water, as all the boreholes in the area have broken down,” Nasra told the governor as reported by the governor’s office.
These raise concerns that residents could turn to unqualified birth attendants and unsafe water sources which could potentially lead to increased cases of maternal mortality and waterborne diseases.
The absence of health services in Tore Payam adds to a mounting list of challenges, including insecurity, poor road conditions, and destructive cattle migration. With residents forced to travel long distances for basic care, local leaders warn that without urgent intervention, lives will be lost.