WARRAP— More than 60 local government officials from the counties of Tonj North and Tonj South recently gathered for a two-day workshop aimed at strengthening their roles in addressing community challenges, including resource management, conflict resolution and security incidents.
One key takeaway was the importance of beginning the search for practical solutions at the grassroots level, regardless of the issue at hand.
“This year, floods wiped out roads and isolated communities. We’re now working on mobilizing ourselves locally to fix roads and improve access to essential services,” said Deng Malith, an Executive Director from Tonj South.
Beyond specific incidents like natural disasters, participants also turned their attention to governance challenges that have long hindered progress.
“Before (December) 2013, local government systems functioned well, but that crisis disrupted everything,” said Ayen Bol, a public official from Tonj North. “Now, we face leadership gaps and stalled planning, making it hard to meet the needs of our communities.”
Frequent turnover of administrative personnel adds to these difficulties, according to Kuol Achol, Executive Director in Awul, Tonj North.
“Every time a new person is appointed, the flow of ongoing work is interrupted. We need continuity to implement plans and minimize the risk of any progress made being lost,” he stressed.
Insecurity was another critical concern discussed. Participants noted that the widespread availability of firearms among civilians continues to fuel violence and instability.
“Civilians with guns constitute a major and dangerous headache,” said Lino Anei, Executive Director in the Tonj part of Tonj North County. “We need to engage youth, advocate for them to be disarmed, and provide sustainable and legal opportunities for them to make a living, like farming or gaining skills through vocational trainings. Such efforts must be initiated by us as leaders,” he added.
Officials in attendance highlighted aspects of transparency and inclusivity as well, as key means to reduce tensions and nurturing social cohesion.
“Building trust is key,” said Kuol Achol. “When leaders are open about the use of available resources and include marginalized groups like women and youth in decision-making, it strengthens the whole community as everyone feels represented.”
The workshop, organized by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan and the United Nations Development Programme, was funded by the South Sudan Multi-Partner Trust Fund for Reconciliation, Stabilization, and Resilience.
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By Zejin Yin
