Pibor Chief Administrator Welcomes Equatoria Peace Effort

(JUBA) – Governor Rabi Mujung Emmanuel of Central Equatoria State has urged churches and local communities to work hand in hand with state authorities to promote peace, unity and security. The Governor delivered this message during his address to the Murle Congregation at Akatgol Presbyterian Church in Juba on Sunday, 7 September 2025.

The Governor highlighted the urgent need to curb child abductions and cattle raiding, particularly at Mogiri Cattle Market, a frequent flashpoint for conflict between herders and traders from neighbouring Greater Pibor Administrative Area.

He described cattle as a blessing meant for social and economic development rather than as a source of tension and violence.

“No child is supposed to be taken from their parents. Such bad practices should be abolished, and we will work with Greater Pibor authorities to address this problem.”

He commended the role of churches in fostering peace and reconciliation across the country, stressing that their influence is vital in promoting harmony along the borders of Jonglei State, Greater Pibor Administrative Area and Central Equatoria State.

The Governor reminded worshippers that ensuring security was a shared duty for all communities and pledged his administration’s commitment to delivering services without discrimination.

“Security is our collective responsibility. As Governor hosting all communities of South Sudan, I assure you of unity and service delivery without segregation.”

Mujung also reaffirmed his determination to carry out President Salva Kiir’s directives on uniting South Sudanese communities, restoring peace and ensuring stability across Central Equatoria.

In his remarks, the Chief Administrator of the Greater Pibor Administrative Area, Gola Boyoi Gola, welcomed the Governor’s outreach as a demonstration of cordial relations between the two regions. He noted that cattle traders from Pibor often face targeted raids at Mogiri Market and suggested that authorities consider constructing a fence around the market to protect traders and their livestock.

SPLM Deputy Secretary General for Administration and Finance, Baba Midan Konyi, praised the Governor’s presence at the Murle Congregation as a historic first and called for similar outreach to other congregations and communities. He said the visit was a clear sign of the Governor’s concern for all South Sudanese residing in the state.

Mujung was accompanied by senior state officials including State Security Advisor Angelo Daya, Minister of Cabinet Affairs Satimon Lupai and Juba County Commissioner Emmanuel Tete Ezbon.

The Mogiri Cattle Market has long been a hotspot of cross border disputes, with cattle raiding not only undermining livelihoods but also threatening peaceful coexistence between herding and farming communities.

Church Outreach in Juba Focuses on Security and Peace