Governors Adil, Lobong Unite to Tackle Road Security and Trade Barriers

(JUBA / TORIT ) -The Governors of Central and Eastern Equatoria states have agreed to strengthen cooperation to address security and trade challenges affecting the movement of people, livestock and goods between the two states.

Speaking during a joint meeting in Juba on Tuesday, Central Equatoria State Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony and Eastern Equatoria State Governor Louis Lobong Lojore discussed concerns over alleged harassment, looting, and the abduction of livestock traders along the Juba–Torit Highway.

Leaders from Eastern Equatoria also raised concerns about what they described as excessive and unauthorized taxation at road checkpoints, which they say is discouraging trade and forcing some traders to seek alternative markets outside Juba.

Governor Lobong called for safe and unhindered movement of traders and their livestock, while Governor Adil reaffirmed his government’s commitment to securing roads and supporting legitimate trade.

The two governors agreed to enhance coordination between state governments, county authorities, and security agencies, strengthen information-sharing and work together to address illegal taxation and improve safety for traders, with the aim of promoting peaceful interstate commerce and economic growth.