Lobonok Community Welcomes Juba Road Budget

(JUBA COUNTY) – Authorities in Juba County have called for community cooperation in Lobonok Payam after the approval of the Juba Lobonok Moli road project, a development seen as important for transport and security in Central Equatoria State.

Residents of Lobonok Payam welcomed the decision by President Salva Kiir Mayardit and Central Equatoria State Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony to approve the road budget. Community representatives said the project would improve movement of goods and people and support local farming and trade linked to Juba.

Speaking during a community meeting in Lobonok on Sunday, Juba County Commissioner Emmanuel Tete Ezbon said his visit was to assess the security situation and review relations between civilians and security forces after incidents reported last year. He said he also wanted to hear directly from residents about their concerns.

The Commissioner thanked the state government for delivering food supplies to organised forces deployed in the area. He said the support had improved morale among the forces and helped maintain security in Lobonok Payam.

He addressed concerns related to cattle herders, noting that the Governor had issued an order to enforce a presidential directive requiring cattle to return to their states of origin. He said his visit aimed to monitor the implementation of that order and gather first hand information.

While in Lobonok, the Commissioner toured the bomas of Tombur, Yapa, Luwala and Karpeto. He met local leaders and residents and later held a security meeting with organised forces to review challenges and coordinate responses, including oversight of cattle movements.

He urged the community to cooperate with government authorities and development partners and asked residents not to resist current and planned development activities. He also encouraged displaced families to return home and prepare their land ahead of the coming farming season.

The Commissioner said the county remained committed to its scholarship programme. Under the initiative, students from 13 payams in Juba County are enrolled at African Zeal University.

The Director of Lobonok Payam, Mr Seme Rombek, welcomed the road project and pledged cooperation with the company expected to implement it. He encouraged citizens to return home and take part in local development.

Chief Matthew Kenyi, Head Chief of Lobonok Payam, thanked the President and the Council of Ministers for approving the road budget. He described the project as an important step for the area and said the community was ready to support government development plans.