Weekly Flights, Night Movement Signal Stability in Kajo-Keji County

KAJO-KEJI) – Residents of Kajo-Keji County in South Sudan’s Central Equatoria State are calling on the local government to strengthen peace and security in the area, saying it is essential for encouraging the return of displaced families, attracting investors, and facilitating development.

Kajo-Keji, which lies along the border with Uganda, experienced mass displacement during the peak of conflict in 2016.

Thousands of residents fled to refugee camps across the border, leaving behind abandoned homes and closed schools.

Nearly a decade later, locals say conditions have improved, with many residents slowly returning to rebuild their lives and livelihoods.

Rose Modo, a local resident, said the community now yearns for sustained peace.

“We want peace and stability so that we can continue rebuilding our lives. You can see the town is becoming busy again. People even came from Juba to celebrate Independence Day here,” she said.

The renewed activity in Wudu, the main town in Kajo-Keji County, is visible in its growing population, vibrant market, and busy roads.

Bosco Malish, a boda boda (motorcycle taxi) rider in Wudu, said the improved security allows them to operate up to late hours.

“We move with passengers until 10:00 PM and we thank the county government for the better security,” he said.

Bosco added that peace will bring more people home from the refugee camps.

He also pointed out recent signs of progress, such as weekly commercial flights connecting Kajo-Keji and Juba.

“This is a good sign that peace is returning. These flights are proof that development is possible when there is peace,” Bosco said.

Kenyi John, another resident of Wudu, praised the reopening of some schools and health facilities in the area. He, however, urged the government to continue expanding essential services.

“We need peace, schools, hospitals, clean water, and good roads. Only then will our brothers and sisters in refugee camps come home voluntarily,” he said.

The residents’ appeals come as Kajo-Keji County leadership vows to sustain efforts to maintain peace.

County Commissioner Wani Jackson Mule recently told Access Radio that the local government remains committed to restoring calm and stability throughout the area.

However, locals continue to insist that without sustained peace, investments in education, infrastructure, and healthcare will remain limited.