Central Equatoria council approves rural bank, raises security concerns in Morobo

The Central Equatoria State Council of Ministers has approved the establishment of a State Rural Development Bank, reviewed the security situation in Morobo, and deferred consideration of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports policy framework.

The decisions were reached during the Council’s sitting chaired by Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony in Juba on Thursday.

The proposed Rural Development Bank is intended to improve access to financial services and support rural development, cooperatives and productive economic activities across the state.

The Council also constituted a ministerial committee to review the existing partnership between the Central Equatoria State Government and China Jiangsu International Economic and Technical Cooperation Group.

The committee will assess the current status of the partnership and make recommendations to the government.

Meanwhile, the Council received a security briefing on the situation across Central Equatoria. It says the overall security situation remains relatively calm, despite pockets of insecurity in some areas.

Particular concern was raised over reported clashes involving fragmented SPLA-IO elements in Morobo County. The Council says the clashes are affecting communities and undermining peace and stability.

It called on the forces involved to immediately cease hostilities and embrace dialogue. The Council also urged all parties to protect civilians and support efforts to restore stability in affected areas.

In its statement, the Council underscored “the importance of resolving differences peacefully and protecting civilians from the consequences of armed confrontation.”

It further stressed the need for peace, stability and peaceful coexistence as South Sudan moves towards the forthcoming electoral process.

The Council said an end to hostilities would help reduce civilian suffering and create an environment conducive to peace and democratic participation.

Meanwhile, the Council deferred consideration of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports policy framework until its next sitting to allow for further review.

The Council’s resolutions were communicated to the media by Bush Buse on behalf of the Minister of Information and Communication.