The Eastern Equatoria State Governor Louis Lobong Lojore at a past event. [Gurtong/ Peter Lokale Nakimangole]
By Peter Lokale Nakimangole
TORIT, 06 July 2012 [Gurtong] – While addressing the Press at his office, Lobong indicated that the communities were not flexible in welcoming investors who are helping exploit the untapped resources.
The Governor cited a section of Didinga community at Ngauro Payam of Budi County and Toposa of Namorunyang of Kapoeta South County which he said showed opposition to foreign investors.
A Parliamentary Committee probing the issue revealed that a team of investors carrying out assessment on gold mining in Ngauro Payam were intimidated when the locals fired bullets in the air to scare them.
Lobong acknowledged that the local communities lack information on the importance of investors to their livelihoods and there is need to create awareness.
He noted that awareness campaign cannot be successfully done if the Investment Bill, presently at National Legislative Assembly, is not passed.
“We are waiting for investment Bill to be passed by lawmakers in Juba. Once it is passed, it will now be used for dissemination to the public,” he explained
The Governor disclosed that his administration is determined to tackle the challenges facing the people.
He said he will seek support from international donors, international non-governmental organisations, civil society groups and the national government.