Eastern Equatoria State Governor Louis Lobong Lojore has called on county commissioners, city mayors and local administrators to take the lead in grassroots peacebuilding, stressing that sustainable stability begins at the community level.
Speaking on Thursday at the opening of a one-day leadership forum in Torit, Governor Lobong said local leaders are the first point of contact between government and citizens and therefore play a critical role in preventing conflict, fostering unity and restoring public confidence in state institutions.
“You are the face of government at the grassroots. Your leadership must inspire hope, promote unity and ensure peace in every community,” the Governor told participants.
The forum brought together commissioners, mayors and administrators from across Eastern Equatoria State to review performance, discuss administrative challenges and strengthen coordination between state and local authorities.
Governor Lobong emphasized that peace and security remain essential foundations for development, warning that economic growth cannot be achieved in an environment marked by persistent insecurity.
He urged local leaders to prioritize conflict prevention, strengthen early warning mechanisms and promote dialogue to resolve disputes before they escalate.
Eastern Equatoria State, which borders Uganda and Kenya and serves as a key trade and transit corridor, continues to face challenges including communal tensions, resource-based conflicts and the spillover effects of regional instability.
The Governor also called for inclusive governance, urging local authorities to actively involve women, youth, traditional leaders and civil society in decision-making processes.
“Inclusive leadership is vital for sustaining peace and development in a diverse state like Eastern Equatoria,” he said.
Governor Lobong stressed the need to improve service delivery in critical sectors such as education, health, water and infrastructure, noting that many communities still lack access to basic services.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to peacebuilding, good governance, agricultural development and youth empowerment as key pillars for long-term stability and economic growth.
The leadership forum provided a platform for local administrators to exchange experiences, identify shared challenges and develop practical strategies to enhance coordination, strengthen revenue collection and promote peaceful coexistence across the state.
State officials say renewed focus on accountable leadership and grassroots engagement is essential to reversing the effects of prolonged conflict, climate shocks and limited infrastructure, and to rebuilding public trust in governance.
