The governors of Central and Eastern Equatoria states have met to address security and trade concerns affecting the movement of people, livestock and goods along the Juba-Torit highway.
Central Equatoria Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony and Eastern Equatoria Governor Louis Lobong Lojore held the meeting as concerns grow over alleged harassment, looting and abduction of livestock traders along the major route.
Eastern Equatoria representatives also raised concerns about what they described as excessive and unauthorised taxation at checkpoints on major roads.
Governor Lobong called for traders and their livestock to be allowed to move safely and without unnecessary restrictions, saying such challenges have pushed some traders to seek alternative markets outside Juba.
Governor Adil reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving security along the roads and supporting legitimate trade between the two states.
The governors agreed to strengthen cooperation between their governments, county authorities and security agencies, including information-sharing and engagement with forces deployed along the highway.
They said the cooperation is intended to improve the safety of traders and travellers while addressing illegal taxation and other security concerns affecting interstate trade.
