Morobo County Bans Local Brewing and Drug Use in New Order

(MOROBO COUNTY) – Authorities in Morobo County have issued a sweeping ban on all illicit alcohol brewing and the public consumption of drugs, including marijuana, in a move aimed at promoting public health and order.

The directive, contained in a provisional order dated June 9, 2026, was issued by the Office of the Commissioner under the Morobo County Local Government Council.

According to the order, the production of local brews commonly known as “Lappy, Jokar, Jenser, Mahata” and similar alcohols has been outlawed across the county. The order also prohibits the open use of “Marungi” (khat) and marijuana in public spaces.

The document states that the order takes immediate effect from the date of signing and applies to all areas within Morobo County. Authorities warned that anyone found violating the directive will face arrest and prosecution.

“I, Joseph Mawa John Okuba, Commissioner of Morobo County… do hereby issue this local order banning all illicit and harmful alcohol… and open public consumption of Marungi and Marijuana in Morobo County,” the order reads in part.

The commissioner said the order is issued under powers granted by national and local legal frameworks, including provisions of the Transitional Constitution of South Sudan (2011, as amended) and relevant laws governing public safety and administration.

The move forms part of a broader effort by county authorities to curb substance abuse, which officials say has been contributing to social instability, crime, and economic hardship within communities.

Security agencies, including members of the National Security Service (NSS) and Criminal Investigation Department (CID), have been tasked with ensuring enforcement of the order.

A committee comprising local officials and security representatives has been established to oversee implementation and report back to the commissioner.

“The authority of Morobo County, local government and all security agencies shall take necessary steps to implement this provisional order with immediate effect,” the document emphasizes.