Environment Minister, CES Governor Discuss Green Agenda

(JUBA) – South Sudan’s Minister of Environment and Forestry, Hon. Josephine Naphon Cosmas, on Friday led a delegation from her ministry to pay a courtesy visit to the Governor of Central Equatoria State (CES), H.E. Lt. Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, in Juba.

The visit was primarily to extend warm congratulations to Governor Mujung following his recent appointment as the head of the Central Equatoria State Government.

The meeting also offered an opportunity for both leaders to engage in open and constructive dialogue on pressing environmental matters affecting the State.

Key topics discussed included environmental protection, the impact of climate change and the sustainable management of natural resources in the region.

Both parties stressed the importance of building stronger coordination between the Ministry and the CES Government to jointly tackle environmental degradation and promote eco-conscious development.

The Minister reaffirmed her ministry’s full commitment to support the State Government in implementing national environmental policies at the local level.

She underlined that such cooperation would not only help safeguard the environment but also contribute meaningfully to the broader development efforts of the State and the country.

“We must work hand in hand to promote resilience in the face of climate change,” Minister Naphon said.

Governor Mujung expressed appreciation for the visit and welcomed the Ministry’s willingness to collaborate with his administration on environmental priorities. He noted that effective environmental governance would be essential for stability, economic growth, and public health in Central Equatoria.

The courtesy call comes at a time when President Salva Kiir has called for greater reform and coordination within government structures.

This renewed commitment to green governance aligns with South Sudan’s national and international obligations, especially under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), where the country has pledged to pursue climate resilience and sustainable development.

The Ministry and the State agreed to continue consultations and expand joint planning on environment related initiatives.

Further technical engagements are expected in the coming months to lay out a roadmap for practical cooperation in environmental conservation and forestry management.

Focus areas discussed during the meeting: