Shops Reopen for Extended Hours as Calm Returns to Morobo Town

(MOROBO COUNTY) – Residents of Morobo County in Central Equatoria State have reported relative calm and stability in recent weeks, raising cautious optimism among communities that have lived through periods of insecurity and displacement.

Local people say there have been no incidents of armed clashes over the past three weeks. The Kaya-Morobo-Yei road, a key trade and transport route, has remained open to traffic, allowing the movement of goods and people without disruption.

In Morobo town, resident Angelina Galaka said businesses have been able to operate until late in the evening. She noted that shops are now staying open between 8:00 and 9:00 p.m, something not seen for many months. She called on the county authorities to continue maintaining security and protecting civilians.

“We have not heard news of attacks or gunshots in recent weeks, and this is a good thing because we want peace so that we can run our businesses without fear,” Galaka said.

Another resident, Amule Laurence, praised local authorities for restoring a sense of calm. He said the community was beginning to feel reassured after long periods of fear and instability.

“We thank God because calm is returning after many months of living in fear and displacement. We urge the government and opposition groups to prioritise peace and protection of civilians in Morobo,” Laurence told Access Radio®.

On Tuesday, 19 August 2025, Major General John Lual, commander of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) for the Greater Yei region covering Yei, Morobo, Lainya and Kajo-Keji counties visited Morobo to reaffirm government commitment to restoring peace. His visit focused on building trust between communities and the security forces.

During the visit, General Lual held discussions with traditional chiefs in the presence of Morobo County Commissioner Charles Data and Security Coordinator Moro Isaac. He stressed the importance of immediate dialogue between civilians and the military to ensure that the protection of civilians remains a government priority.

The General also outlined government plans to stabilise Morobo, a county that has faced repeated security challenges in recent years. He stressed that lasting peace depends on cooperation between community leaders and security forces.

Commissioner Charles Data described the General’s visit as timely and encouraging. He said residents had long called for stronger government attention to security issues and expressed hope that the renewed assurances would lead to sustainable peace.