The governor of Lakes State, Gen. Rin Tueny Mabor has called on all the citizens of the state to boost agricultural production across the state.
He encourages people to leave urban areas to go and prepare farmlands as part of efforts to tackle hunger in 2025. The governor believes hunger is a key factor driving conflict in the state.
In his New Year’s message, Governor Tueny promised security for farmers and urged the communities to take advantage of opportunities for extensive farming, both for business and family sustenance.
“Go out to the villages and start clearing land to establish farms. People tried it in 2024, but it was not enough. The production from 2024 should be the foundation for 2025. I want you to farm for what you will eat and sell any surplus,” he said. “Do it yourself and your government will provide security for you. I want you to eradicate hunger because it breeds hatred and fosters reckless talk and violence. I am always happy when I see people walking the streets of town content because they have something to eat”.
Gen. Mabor said the government will prioritize agriculture to ensure food security in all rural areas of Lakes State.
“Already we held peace dialogues and initiated peace interchanges between the neighboring counties of Tonj East and Tonj North in Warrap State, as well as Pakam in Rumbek North, Cueibet County in Lakes State, to facilitate peaceful resettlements,” he said.
The governor confirmed that a cholera outbreak in the three counties of Greater Yirol West, Yirol East, and Awerial has led to deaths with more cases reported in recent weeks.
He urged the general public to practice proper health and hygiene, including regular hand washing, drinking clean water, boiling drinking water, and avoiding pool water to prevent cholera infections.