The Jonglei state government has allocated land for the relocation of internally displaced persons as part of their integration into communities within the state.
The land was assessed over the weekend by the state’s governor, Dr. Riek Gai Kok, alongside government delegations and representatives from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan or UNMISS.
After the assessment, Governor Riek Gai assured the media that each IDP would receive a plot of land during the allotment process.
‘’ Today you have shown a good example by giving the land not only to those in POC but to everyone who is living in the Jonglei state. We have our brothers who came from Sudan and some are still coming where they are going to stay if we don’t give them land and this is the spirit we need and this is the land we liberated,’’ Governor Gai said.
The designated land for the IDPs, including those from the Protection of Civilian Site and those displaced by floods, is located behind the WFP premises known as Bor Two.
However, the Governor did not specify when the IDPs would begin occupying the allocated land.
Geetha Pious, the Head of UNMISS Bor Field Office, praised Bor County for the land allocation and reaffirmed UNMISS’ support for the state.
‘’I appreciate the Anyidi, Makuach communities and Bor County Commissioner for allocating this land for the people. The governor in his first mission today is just only one week since he assumed the office and visited the place and started allocating, thank you governor UNMISS will support and the entire UN community,’’ Geetha said.
Meanwhile, Guet Gong Kok, the head chief of Anyidi Payam, expressed his belief that the integration of the IDPs is a crucial step toward bringing people together.
‘’ I appreciate the governor for starting with development and peace activities. The integration of the IDPs from POC into communities is a step in peace building and the land does not belong to us alone (Palek) it’s for everyone and anyone that has come to settle is welcome,’’ He stated.
Additionally, the government was shown the land designated for state sports activities.
