9 March 2012 – In a historic moment, Western Equatoria State's Transitional Constitution was signed and the governor sworn in today in the capital Yambio.

The constitution was signed by Governor Joseph Bangasi Bakosoro, whose swearing in was then officiated by Western Equatoria High Court Judge Clement Juma Gogomia and State Legislative Assembly Speaker Bukulu Edwards.

Speaking during the event, Governor Bakasoro emphasized education as a major challenge affecting the majority of Western Equatoria people, but especially women in rural areas.

"My government, as part of 2012 policy plans, will be launching an educational programme in all WES counties, and ensure that all children, especially girls, receive basic education," the governor said.

He said education was the only key to success, progress and development. He further appealed for unity among citizens, discouraging tribalism and segregation and calling for a change of people's attitudes for progress and development.

Minister of Local Government Wilson Sidigi said, " I encourage the people of WES to stay united in continuing to fight against the LRA (Lord's Resistance Army) and I commend the efforts of the SPLA (Sudan People's Liberation Army), Home Guards and UPDF (Ugandan People's Defence Forces)."

Advising the government and people of WES to be more constructive in building the new nation, UNDP representative Aruho Apolo Tinka said, "Embrace democracy by ensuring transparency and accountability and strengthen areas supported by the UNDP -- health, rule of law and development."

UNMISS Western Equatoria Officer-in-Charge Svetlana Pencheva stressed the open, transparent and inclusive process of drafting the State Transitional Constitution, which included civil society, women, youth and political parties.

"I congratulate ... the governor and the ... government and people of WES for the great achievement ... and wish them fruitful work, establishment of the new cabinet and fulfillment of the state priorities in 2012 in the field of education and health," Ms. Svetlana said.

African Union (AU) head in South Sudan Nakaha Stanislas encouraged people to be strong and decisive leaders in moving the country forward. "The AU is prepared to assist South Sudan generally, and particularly WES, which is presently on their agenda in combating the LRA atrocities."

The celebration included traditional songs and dances from Eastern and Western Equatoria states. Gifts, such as traditional objects and crafts, were presented to dignitaries and government officials in appreciation of their presence at the function.

Also attending the gathering were Central and Eastern Equatoria Governors Clement Wani Konga and Louis Lobongo, respectively, government officials, commissioners, the Western Equatoria archbishop and other religious leaders, representatives of the UN and non-governmental organizations, political parties, women's groups and students.