South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Jenifer James
The Governor of Western Bahr el Ghazal State, Emmanuel Parimo Okello, reiterated the government’s commitment to peace, security, and development, urging citizens to take action in the face of ongoing economic challenges.
Addressing a large crowd during the Independence Day celebration in Wau, Okello emphasised the importance of remembering those who sacrificed their lives for the country’s freedom.
“We are committed to implementing peace and maintaining security and development in Western Bahr el Ghazal State,” Okello said. “As we celebrate this independence, we must remember the heroes and heroines who fought for the freedom of South Sudan that we enjoy today.”
The governor’s speech came amid growing concerns over food insecurity and inflation affecting large parts of the region.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Governor, Zachariah Joseph Garang, echoed similar concerns regarding the worsening economic situation, urging citizens to actively support themselves through agricultural efforts. He emphasised that the government cannot address the growing economic crisis alone without the direct involvement and participation of the people.
“We can’t fight the economic crisis alone as a government,” Garang stated firmly. “So I call on citizens to embark on agriculture to combat starvation in the state. There is no citizen from another country who will come to help us address this crisis, whether economic or food-related.”
He stressed that collective action and self-reliance through farming and food production are essential for overcoming the current hardships facing the region.
He added that self-reliance is crucial, stating, “This is the right time for us to stand together and fight starvation in the state.”
Western Bahr el Ghazal, like many states in South Sudan, continues to grapple with food insecurity, exacerbated by climate change, conflict, and limited infrastructure. Leaders hope Independence Day can serve as a rallying point for unity and action toward long-term stability.
