23 May 2014 - Seeking to examine local government organs, UNMISS today concluded a two-day seminar targeting civil servants, law makers and chiefs in Eastern Equatoria State.

Speaking at the opening ceremony in the capital Torit, Civil Affairs team leader Julius Fondong said the seminar aimed to critically explore roles of various organs in the state local government.

“This helps us to come up with a plan for service delivery and create a framework to resolve some of the issues around local government in the State,” Mr. Fondong said.

The Director General in the local government ministry, Abdallah Hassan, said the seminar presented a long-awaited opportunity to address challenges facing local governance.

“Roles, responsibilities and jurisdiction have been a problem…revenue collection is also another contentious issue that I expect this seminar to address,” Mr. Hassan said.

The participants hoped that discussions and recommendations will be the beginning of a new approach to local government in Eastern Equatoria.

County Commissioner of Kapoeta North County, Lokai Iko Loteyo said, “The seminar created a platform for them to exchange views, identify the weaknesses in local government administration and work out a plan.”