Central Equatoria State Governor Augustino Jadallah Wani on Monday donated 50 million South Sudanese Pounds towards the construction of Mongo Secondary School in Otogo Payam’s Mongo Boma in Yei River County.
In a show of commitment to supporting education in the state, the governor made the contribution while laying a foundation stone for the school.
The project was initiated by young people from Mongo Boma under the leadership of Retired Bishop Hillary Luate Adeba, the former Bishop of Yei Anglican Diocese.
Governor Jadalla urged the people of Mongo to shun division and work collectively for the development of the state and their community.
“Without peace, there can be no progress. We cannot build schools, hospitals, or roads if we remain divided by conflict. That is why I urge the people of Mongo and the entire Yei River County to embrace peace and reconciliation,” he advised. “The responsibility for peace starts with us. We must initiate grassroots dialogues to resolve grievances—let us not wait for outsiders to solve our problems. Elders, chiefs, youth, and women must all be part of this process.”
Jadallah described the foundation stone as a symbol of transformation in the future of Mongo, Yei River County, and South Sudan as a whole.
He also called for peaceful coexistence between civilians and the armed forces.
“I want the area commander from here to Ombasi, Iwotoka, Cinema, and beyond to embrace the citizens. And to you, the citizens, peace is in your hands. Do not harbor criminals in your homes. Our greatest challenge is that when a wrongdoer seeks refuge, some protect them instead of reporting them. This only brings problems upon you,” he urged. “For lasting peace, we must unite, bring those in the bush back home, and let us sit together as one people to resolve our issues. We have seen enough bloodshed and it must end.”
For his part, Yei River County Commissioner Emmanuel Taban Seme attributed the laying of the foundation stone to the relative peace and stability in the county. He urged armed groups to abandon violence and embrace dialogue, stressing that development can only flourish in an environment of peace.
Meanwhile, Bishop Emeritus Adeba lauded the governor for his visit and unwavering dedication to service delivery.
“The laying of the foundation stone is a clear commitment by the government to improving the lives of its people,” he stated.
A youth representative, Raymond Duduka, outlined the pressing challenges facing Mongo’s young generation, including restricted freedom of expression, a poor road network, and the absence of vocational training opportunities. He called for increased investment in youth empowerment programs to unlock the full potential of the next generation.
Located South of Yei Town, Mongo is one of the bomas in Otogo Payam.