The newly appointed administrator of the Kidepo Valley Administrative Area in Eastern Equatoria State, Onyang Peter Ohuyoro, has pledged to prioritize security, peaceful coexistence and development, promising to work closely with communities and government to transform the newly established administrative area.
Speaking after assuming office, Ohuyoro described peace and security as the foundation upon which all development depends, saying his administration will focus first on ending local conflicts and strengthening relationships with neighboring communities.
“My priority is security. I want to make sure our communities live in peaceful coexistence, and that peace should extend beyond our borders,” he said. “Whatever happens should always be attributed to individual criminals and those who are against peace, not to the community as a whole, because we remain one people.”
Ohuyoro said lasting peace will pave the way for economic growth, improved infrastructure and better public services across Kidepo Valley.
He encouraged residents to diversify their livelihoods beyond cattle keeping by embracing business and other income-generating activities that can improve household incomes and accelerate local development.
“We have to become development-oriented,” he stated. “Once peace is secured, infrastructure, trade and services will naturally follow.”
The administrator also highlighted the importance of road infrastructure, noting that he has been actively involved in community efforts to rehabilitate the Lobira–Bira road.
He stressed that improved roads will increase trade, enhance service delivery, and allow people to move safely throughout the area.
“When there is peace, people move without fear, goods reach markets, and services become accessible,” he emphasized. “Roads are key to development.”
Ohuyoro also reiterated his support for the holding of national elections, saying citizens deserve an elected government capable of responding effectively to their needs.
“The people are demanding elections because they want leaders who are directly accountable to them,” he said. “An elected government will respond more quickly to the suffering of our people.”
“I love peace, and I believe my community will work with me to build a peaceful future,” he added.
For his part, Chief Erneo Hafore welcomed the appointment of the new administrator, assuring him of the community’s full support. He emphasized that Kidepo Valley needs peace and urged residents to cooperate with the new administration.
“Our priority is peace. We welcome the new leadership, and we are ready to work together,” Chief Hafore said. “The people should remain united and support development.”
Meanwhile, Galata Lina Perino, a community member, described the creation of Kidepo Valley Administrative Area as a historic achievement that has brought hope to residents who previously depended on Ikotos County for administrative services.
She said people from villages, including Lobira, Chahari, and Hiriavit, often traveled long distances to Ikotos County Headquarters whenever they required government services.
“We are very happy because Kidepo Valley now has its own administration. This is a great opportunity for our people,” she said.
She appealed to the new leadership to strengthen unite neighboring communities and intensify efforts to end cattle raiding, which has long disrupted peace and freedom of movement.
“When people are united, development comes, but when communities are divided, nothing moves forward,” Lina concluded.
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