South Sudan must now achieve economic independence, says Jonglei official

9 Jul 2012

South Sudan must now achieve economic independence, says Jonglei official

9 July 2012 - Having achieved independence through suffering and countless sacrifices, South Sudan must now struggle for economic freedom, a top official said today at independence anniversary celebrations in the Jonglei State capital Bor.

"Now what remains is to build a united, peaceful and prosperous society based on justice, equality, respect for human rights, rule of law and total economic independence," Jonglei Legislative Assembly Speaker Peter Chol Wal told thousands of people gathered at Bor Stadium.

Governor Kuol Manyang Juuk noted that progress had been made, despite persistent insecurity and inter-communal violence, which had hampered the state government's efforts to provide good governance, infrastructure and social services.

"We still made some progress in key areas like disarmament, peace-building, governance, economic development and service delivery," he said. "We carried out a successful disarmament exercise in which 11,532 guns were collected in all 11 counties of the state."

The government was also working hard to end cattle raiding as well as tribal fighting and bring abducted women and children back to their families, the governor said.

He called on all to contribute to nation building, urging citizens to "come together, unite, work hard and produce sufficient food for the state population's self-reliance".

Lt. Gen. Kuol Deim Kuol, Commander of Operation Restoring Peace (the Sudan People's Liberation Army disarmament force) declared civilian disarmament a success and vowed to continue the exercise until Jonglei was free of guns.

Civilian disarmament was launched on 12 March by the Government of South Sudan across Jonglei State.

Representing UNMISS, State Coordinator Guang Cong congratulated the people of South Sudan on their first year of independence, pledging that UNMISS would continue working towards a stable and prosperous country.

The day was also marked by songs, traditional dancing and military parades. All six major tribes performed cultural dances and sang songs focusing on unity and calling for an end to tribalism as well as corruption.

Attending the event were state government officials, organized forces, students, Bor residents and representatives of UNMISS as well as non-governmental organizations.

During the occasion, the Jonglei Women Association presented a gift to UNMISS in recognition of its support to peace and stability in the state.