Water Shortage and Cattle Movement Dominate Mundari-CES Governor Meeting

(JUBA) – Central Equatoria State Governor Lt. Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel has called for greater unity and cooperation within the Mundari community, saying it is essential for peace, development and stability across Terekeka County and the State at large.

Addressing a high level Mundari delegation during a meeting on Monday at the State Secretariat in Juba, Governor Mujung said the call for unity comes in line with the national leadership’s vision for peace and reconciliation.

“I want to assure you that my office is open to all communities,” said Governor Mujung. “We must work together as one people. Our unity is our strength and only through collective effort can we overcome the challenges we face.”

The Governor highlighted President Salva Kiir Mayardit’s directives on unity and development as the basis for his appeal.

“The President has made it clear there will be no development without peace and no peace without unity,” he stated. “This is not just a political message. It is a call to action for every community, including the Mundari.”

Mujung reaffirmed his intention to closely collaborate with the leadership in Terekeka to resolve key issues affecting local people.

“We must not wait for solutions from elsewhere. Together, we must identify our problems and solve them as a united people,” he said.

The Mundari delegation was led by the Acting Chairperson of the Mundari Community, Hon. Wani Buyu, and the Commissioner of Terekeka County, Hon. Emmanuel Loku Ladu. It included parliamentarians, traditional chiefs, youth representatives and women leaders.

Hon. Loku emphasised that water scarcity remains one of the most urgent concerns.

“Our people are moving with cattle in search of water every dry season,” he said. “This movement brings conflict and instability. We must build water reservoirs to reduce this migration.”

He continued, “We are planning a major community conference in Kudda to engage directly with our cattle keepers. We want them to understand the importance of staying within their areas and using local resources wisely. The Governor has promised to support this initiative.”

In response, Governor Mujung said “I have heard your concerns on water, education and health. We are already in contact with development partners to see how best we can support reservoir construction and improve basic services.”

Hon. Wani Buyu, speaking on behalf of the Mundari community, backed the Governor’s message and promised full cooperation from the people of Terekeka.

“We are standing behind your leadership, Governor,” he said. “But we also need tools and support to move from cattle herding to farming.”

He added, “We are telling our young people that farming is not a sign of weakness. It is the future. But for this to happen, we need the State Government to help us with tractors, hoes and seeds.”

Hon. Buyu also raised concerns over tensions along state borders.

“We want peaceful coexistence with our neighbours in Jonglei and Lakes States,” he said. “It is only through mutual understanding and regular dialogue that we can avoid conflict.”

During the session, the delegation also delivered a congratulatory message to Governor Mujung following his recent appointment. Hon. Loku said, “Your leadership brings hope to the people of Terekeka. We know you understand our needs because you have worked with our communities for years.”

The Governor thanked the delegation for their visit and praised their constructive approach.

“This kind of engagement is what we need more of,” he told them. “I promise you today that your concerns will be forwarded to the Council of Ministers and appropriate partners for action.”

Mujung said the government would focus on building infrastructure, boosting agriculture, and expanding access to education and health services. He concluded by saying, “Let us not allow our differences to divide us. Whether we are in Juba orTerekeka, we are all sons and daughters of this land. Together, we can build a better future.”