Central Equatoria’s governor has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enhancing security across the state, signaling renewed efforts to tackle crime and ensure public safety amid growing concerns over unrest in urban and rural areas.
During a high‑level security council meeting in Juba, the governor outlined a comprehensive multi‑agency plan aimed at bolstering police presence, reinforcing military checkpoints along key roads, and intensifying community engagement programmes. “Our priority is to create a safe environment where citizens can live, work, and go about their daily lives without fear,” he declared.
The governor announced an increase in patrols across vulnerable districts, deployment of rapid response units to hotspots, and coordinated operations in collaboration with armed forces to curb armed robbery, cattle raiding, and youth violence. He also emphasized stronger collaboration with local councils and traditional authorities to improve intelligence sharing, conflict resolution, and confidence‑building measures.
A significant focus of the governor’s plan includes the expansion of community policing initiatives, aimed at empowering residents through public safety forums, neighbourhood watch schemes, and targeted youth outreach programmes. The governor stressed that sustainable security cannot be achieved without public participation and trust in law enforcement.
“Security is not the responsibility of government alone,” he affirmed. “Our citizens are essential partners in this ambition.”
To support the operational plans, the governor has requested additional resources from the national government, including police recruitment, logistics support, and funding for joint civil‑military exercises. At the meeting, representatives from donor agencies and NGOs pledged to support these efforts through training and capacity‑building initiatives.
In response to recent reports of violent incidents—particularly armed confrontations and livestock theft—the governor said any perpetrators found responsible would face immediate arrest and prosecution. Judicial authorities are expected to collaborate more closely with security services to ensure swift accountability.
Civil society actors and traditional leaders welcomed the renewed commitment to security, describing it as a much‑needed response to recent spikes in violence and a positive step toward regional stability.
As Central Equatoria moves forward with this security agenda, residents remain cautiously optimistic that a stronger, more proactive approach—rooted in community partnership—will translate into a safer tomorrow for all.
