Western Equatoria State Governor James Al-Teib Berapai has called on citizens to embrace unity, respect, and the sustainable use of land as a cornerstone for economic growth and social development.
Governor Al-Teib made the remarks on Sunday while donating 5 million South Sudanese Pounds to the Episcopal Church of South Sudan (ECSS) Yambio Diocese Development Committee, during a thanksgiving event that brought together faithful, traditional leaders, and community members in Yambio.
Taking pride in his new role, the Governor pledged to work hand-in-hand with the people to make Western Equatoria “great again.”
“I am standing before you with pride as your Governor. I will work with your ideas, plus the little I have, to make Western Equatoria State great again,” Governor Al-Teib said.
The Governor stressed that land remains the state’s most valuable asset, yet it is largely underutilized.
“From my research, our land is only benefiting 20 percent of its potential, while 80 percent is going for nothing. Land has cash value, If we secure proper documents at all levels and take them to the judiciary, our land will turn into cash-flow land,” he explained, noting that this would enable access to loans, attract investment, and empower communities economically.
He called on citizens to recognize the three categories of land recognized by law community land, public land, and individual land and to formalize ownership to avoid disputes and misuse.
Drawing from biblical principles, Al-Teib highlighted respect as a foundation for harmony in the state.
“The Bible says a wife should honor her husband and the husband should honor his wife. If we respect and honor each other as the people of Western Equatoria, there will be peace, unity, development, and service delivery,” he emphasized.
He reassured citizens that his administration would govern by the rule of law, pledging not to impose decisions but to incorporate the will of the people into government policies.
“I will not impose things on you, my people. Once you agree on something, the government will adapt it into the system. I am coming to govern this state with the rule of law, where the voices of the people matter,” he said.
The Governor, describing himself as “a son of Western Equatoria chosen by God to serve,” also made similar calls on land during a mass at St. Mary’s Catholic Cathedral Yambio.
Religious leaders at the event welcomed the Governor’s message, underscoring the importance of land and leadership in securing the future of Western Equatoria.
Bishop Yepeta Natana of Gangura ECSS Area praised the Governor’s focus on land, urging citizens to follow the guidance.
“Land is God’s gift to humanity. If we protect and use it wisely, it will sustain our families and generations to come. The Governor’s call should not be taken lightly,” Bishop Natana said.
On his part, Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio, who presided over the mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral, stressed the link between responsible land management and good governance.
“Leadership is about stewardship, and stewardship begins with the land. Without protecting and properly managing our land, no government program or development initiative will succeed. I advise the people of Western Equatoria to unite behind this vision and to support the Governor in promoting both peace and sustainable development,” Bishop Kussala said.
As land disputes and underdevelopment continue to pose challenges in South Sudan, Governor Al-Teib’s call signals a renewed effort to transform Western Equatoria’s natural resources into opportunities for prosperity.
His remarks have been widely welcomed by church leaders and citizens who view land not only as a cultural identity but also as a critical asset for peace, unity, and economic recovery.
