The newly appointed administrator of Kasengor Administrative Area has pledged to make peace, security, education, healthcare, clean water, and food security the cornerstones of his administration.
Natabo Abraham Nyitak also promised to work with communities to develop and transform one of Eastern Equatoria State’s newest administrative areas.
On 11 June, Eastern Equatoria State authorities confirmed the killing of Kapoeta East County Commissioner Stephen Lowosio Lomongin, who they said was ambushed while on an official visit to the disputed area of Kessengor, a territory claimed by both Eastern Equatoria State and the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA).
It is, however, unclear if the dispute if the dispute over the jurisdiction of the area has been conclusively resolved by the national government, GPAA, and Eastern Equatoria State.
“I want to register my appreciation to His Excellency Governor Louis Lobong Lojore for entrusting me with this noble task to serve the people,” Nyitak said during his first media interview on Wednesday with Radio Tamazuj after his appointment.
He described his appointment not only as a personal honor but as a sign of confidence in the people of Kasengor, pledging to work closely with local communities, traditional leaders, youth, women, and development partners to improve livelihoods.
Nyitak stressed that restoring peace and security will be his administration’s immediate priority, arguing that sustainable development cannot be achieved without stability.
He said Kasengor’s residents deserve peaceful coexistence rather than conflict, emphasizing that communities are eager for quality education, accessible healthcare, clean drinking water, water for livestock, and improved food production.
“The people need peace; they need education, clean water, healthcare, and food security,” he stated. “These are our top priorities.”
The administrator acknowledged South Sudan’s economic challenges but maintained that strong collaboration among government institutions, local communities, and development partners would help overcome financial constraints.
“We may face challenges because of the economic situation, but through cooperation and political commitment, we can achieve meaningful progress,” he said.
Although he has not yet travelled to Kasengor since assuming office, Nyitak revealed that a coordination team made up of youth representatives, community leaders and traditional authorities is already on the ground monitoring the situation and providing regular updates.
According to Nyitak, the newly created Kasengor Administrative Area comprises Kasengor Payam and Lopiat Payam, with the headquarters expected to be located in Kasengor Payam as stipulated in the establishing decree.
He estimated the area’s population at between 38,000 and 40,000 people, based on previous census projections.
Nyitak appealed to residents and neighboring communities to embrace reconciliation and unity, describing peace as the foundation upon which development depends.
“Peace is our priority, and we need unity, peace, and development,” he stressed. “This is my message to our people and their neighbors.”
His appointment comes at a critical time as residents of Kasengor look to the new administration to strengthen governance, improve security and expand access to essential public services.
Meanwhile, Juma Tikol, Secretary of the Eastern Equatoria State Civil Society Network, welcomed the appointment and urged the new administrator to immediately engage local communities to rebuild trust and counter misinformation.
He said many residents remain anxious following recent insecurity and political tensions, making community dialogue essential for restoring confidence.
“The administrator should engage the local people and help them understand what the government has achieved by establishing this administrative area,” Tikol said. “Those living in fear should be reassured that government action is targeting perpetrators of insecurity, not innocent civilians.”
He noted that rumors and speculation have contributed to uncertainty among residents and stressed that open communication would encourage displaced families and frightened communities to resume normal life.
Tikol also appealed directly to the people of Kasengor to unite behind the new administration and reject individuals seeking to fuel division or insecurity.
“This administrative area now belongs to its people,” he said. “They should unite, strengthen it and work towards development instead of listening to the few individuals trying to create confusion and insecurity.”
He added that lasting peace, effective leadership, and improved service delivery would depend on cooperation between the government and local communities.
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