Western Equatoria State Governor, Barrister James Al-Taib Jazz Berapai, has called on the Greater Burekiwe community of Nzara and Yambio Counties to stand united and support his leadership as he embarks on a mission to restore peace and drive development across the state.
Speaking during a warm reception at his residence, Governor Berapai welcomed the community and urged them to extend their gratitude to President Salva Kiir Mayardit for what he described as a “wise decision” to appoint him as governor.
“I have come with one leg, one hand, and one eye, with the hope of receiving the remaining ones from you so that we work together to restore peace in our state,” Governor Berapai told the gathering, stressing unity as the foundation for strengthening his administration.
The Governor pledged to prioritize education, agriculture, and youth empowerment as cornerstones of his leadership.
He announced plans to collect the names and qualifications of educated sons and daughters of the state, with a promise to create opportunities for them.
He further revealed that his government will soon establish a Western Equatoria Council of Elders drawn from the ten counties, alongside a Council of Churches to guide and support state leadership.
“We are hoping to lead you according to the rule of law, not the rule of men. Any law must first go to parliament for deliberation before my government adopts it,” Berapai declared, emphasizing accountability and lawful governance.
The governor also addressed land issues, saying Western Equatoria was benefitting only 20% from its resources while 80% went to waste. He promised to inject cash value into land and use it productively for the people.
The chairperson of Greater Burekiwe and former Nzara County Commissioner and Deputy Governor Western Equatoria State, Hon. Elia Richard Box, welcomed the governor, praising President Kiir’s decision and calling for cooperation between the state and the community.
“We need peace, unity, and humility among us all. What we ask from you, Governor, is good governance and the wisdom to restore peace in all ten counties of our state,” Box said.
Other leaders and citizens echoed pressing concerns, including women’s representation, scholarships for young people, food security, health, and job creation.
Hon. Ditta Zachariah a member of state assemblyurged the governor to uphold the 35% women’s quota in his government.
However, Hon. Bakoyogo James Severino Morrisformer minister of local government called for scholarships in medicine, law, and nursing, and equal opportunities in public service across the state.
For his part, Mr. Robert Ruati, chairperson of Burekiwe in Nzara, highlighted difficulties in processing nationality and passports, while urging empowerment of farmers.
Meanwhile, Zizi Richard former Nzara County Commissioner pushed for the revival of Nzara’s agro-complex and airstrip to create jobs and boost tourism in the state.
Youth representatives demanded recognition for veterans through vocational training, renovation of Nzara’s youth center, support to local universities, and revival of the Gbudue National Stadium.
Lastly, Chief Ramadan Uko Sasa, paramount chief of Nzara, praised the governor’s appointment but lamented the lack of job opportunities for Burekiwe youth.
In a call for unity, Governor Berapai concluded by urging the community to embrace one another without jealousy, citing biblical values as a guide for progress.
“With God’s power, we must plan our leadership well and make sure we develop our land, our state, and our country,” he affirmed.
The meeting ended with renewed hope among the Greater Burekiwe community that under Berapai’s leadership, Western Equatoria State will witness peace, good governance, and inclusive development.