Magwi County Commissioner bans tramadol, charcoal export

TORIT – The Commissioner of Magwi County in South Sudan’s Eastern Equatoria State has announced two sweeping local orders aimed at curbing drug abuse and limiting environmental destruction in an effort to restore security and sustainable resource usage.

The orders—both signed on 8 December by Pole-pole Benjamin Olum—prohibit the sale of tramadol and other controlled drugs within the county and impose a complete ban on the export of charcoal produced in Magwi to neighbouring countries.

Tramadol sale “strictly prohibited”

In Local Order No. 03/2025, Commissioner Olum directed all pharmacies, clinics and drug shops to immediately stop selling tramadol and similar “toxic substances”. The directive cites growing concerns over widespread misuse of tramadol by young people, especially those involved in street gangs and violent activities.

The opioid painkiller—which should ordinarily be dispensed by prescription—has in recent years become easily accessible over the counter in towns across South Sudan. Its abuse has been linked to crime, heightened aggression, and risky behaviour as it suppresses fear, increases alertness and induces euphoria among users.

In Magwi, Torit and even Juba, residents have repeatedly warned that tramadol use is fuelling gang culture and insecurity in communities already struggling with limited policing capacity.

Commissioner Olum warned that individuals or health facilities found violating the directive would face heavy fines, legal prosecution, and immediate closure of their businesses. The enforcement of the order has been placed under the responsibility of county security organs, the County Health Department and local community leadership.

Charcoal export outlawed

In a separate order, Local Order No. 04/2025, the commissioner announced an immediate ban on the export of charcoal produced from Magwi County to other countries. The directive follows a presidential decree and executive orders issued by Eastern Equatoria Governor Louis Lobong Lojore and the national Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Forestry aimed at combating widespread illegal logging.

Olum directed that all remaining charcoal found in forests, along roads and inside stores or vehicles be seized by government forces and later sold at a public auction. Proceeds from the sales, the order states, will be used to rehabilitate the Alia–Ngomoromo road and support county revenue.

Security organs have been instructed to enforce the ban and arrest violators, who will face heavy fines and further legal action.

Balancing livelihoods and enforcement

Charcoal production remains a critical livelihood activity for many rural families in Eastern Equatoria, where access to electricity remains extremely limited. Even in urban centres, charcoal is the main source of household energy for cooking, making the new orders particularly sensitive for both residents and authorities.

Despite environmental concerns, implementation may prove challenging due to the absence of affordable alternative energy sources. Community members have also long alleged that some members of the security forces—who frequently go months without salaries—are themselves involved in charcoal production, complicating enforcement efforts.

Still, Magwi officials say the orders are necessary to protect both the environment and public safety. The Commissioner emphasised that the directives take effect immediately and will remain in force until further notice.