The Commissioner of Yambio County in South Sudan’s Gbudue state has urged the citizens to prioritize agriculture.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj, Commissioner Phillip Aguambi said it was time for increased productivity in agriculture, which declined due to civil war.

“There will be more people coming from other states and internally displaced persons. What will they eat?” he asked on Wednesday.

South Sudan has a wealth of untapped agricultural assets. However, despite the huge agricultural potential it possessed, only about 5 percent of the country’s vast land is reportedly being cultivated.

Meanwhile, the commissioner appealed for support for Yambio hospital, a state-owned facility serving thousands of the local population.

“Yambio [county] has a big number of population, with one hospital. There is thus need for more facilities and medical personal,” he said.

The official stressed the importance of continued community dialogues, saying maintenance of peace is everyone’s responsibility.