In a landmark meeting that underscored the importance of collaboration between government and traditional authority, the Governor of Western Equatoria State met with Simon Rondon Buda, the Acting Paramount Chief of Yambio County, to chart a united path toward peace, stability, and service delivery.
Welcoming the chief to his office, the Governor emphasized his commitment to building strong partnerships with traditional leaders to restore dignity and hope to communities scarred by conflict.
“I have come to join my brain and hand with yours so that we take good care of our people in Western Equatoria, for our people to thrive, they need peace, protection, education, and access to basic services. I am calling upon you, the traditional leaders, to walk this path with me and bring back peace to our people.” He said.
He stressed that peace remains the top priority of his administration, noting that without it, communities are unable to access essential services such as farming, education, and healthcare.
The meeting comes against the backdrop of ongoing displacement from Greater Nadiangere Payam, where violence since February this year following the removal of former governor Alfred Futuyo Karaba has left civilians dead, homes burned, and properties destroyed.
Many survivors have fled to Yambio and Rangu Payams, with hundreds of internally displaced persons (IDPs) still in need of urgent assistance.
For his part, Acting Paramount Chief Simon Rondon Buda pledged the full support of traditional leaders in working with the government to restore harmony and rebuild shattered communities within Yambio County.
“There are many IDPs who fled from Nadiangere and have now settled in Yambio and Rangu, and they need support as traditional leaders of Yambio County, we are ready to work for peace, promote unity, and strengthen social cohesion among our people,” Chief Rondon said.
Observers say the Governor’s outreach to traditional leaders could mark a turning point in fostering grassroots peace building, bridging the gap between formal governance structures and community leadership.
The partnership is expected to play a crucial role in addressing displacement, restoring security, and ensuring service delivery across the state.