Western Equatoria State Governor Bangasi Joseph Bakosoro addressing the 29th SPLA anniversary celebrations in Yambio. [Gurtong/ Joseph Nashion]
By Joseph Nashion
YAMBIO, 19 May 2012 [Gurtong] – State Governor Bangasi Joseph Bakosoro told the residents that development of South Sudan depended on peace even as the neighbouring Sudan intensified its aggression against the infant nation.
He at the same time encouraged the state residents to engage in agricultural production in order to tackle food insecurity.
“Agriculture is the backbone of our economy. I therefore urge all of us to boost our efforts, especially with the rains seasons. I call upon all the chiefs to lead in mobilisation efforts”, he told the gathering during celebrations to mark the SPLA Day in the state capital Yambio.
Governor Bakosoro at the same time declared that South Sudan will continue to protect its territory.
He urged the state residents to be vigilant and protect the South Sudanese borders against external aggression.
The colourful celebration that was marked by performances by traditional dancers and local artists ended with a football match where Freedom Boys received a 7-nil thrashing by Nile City.
Meanwhile Ugandan security forces have vowed to pursue Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) leader Joseph Kony in a bid to rid the country and neighbouring South Sudan of insecurity.
The Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) operation commander in Western Equatoria State Lieutenant Colonel Abdu Rugumayo told Gurtong that the vastness and poor infrastructure had however, posed challenges for the troops pursuing the fugitive LRA leader.
UPDF in collaboration with American security forces are combing the jungles in pursuit of Kony.
The atrocities of LRA have been mostly felt in Western Equatoria State, with most residents fleeing their homes.