Northern Bahr El Ghazal Governor urges unity to tackle poverty, underdevelopment

AWEIL – The newly appointed Governor of Northern Bahr El Ghazal State, Charles Madut Akol, has called on residents of the state to embrace unity and collective responsibility as the cornerstone for addressing persistent poverty, unemployment, and underdevelopment.

Speaking to members of the public in Aweil, Governor Madut said the challenges facing Northern Bahr El Ghazal are deep-rooted and can only be tackled through cooperation among citizens, community leaders, and government officials. He stressed that unity must come first if meaningful progress is to be achieved.

“The first thing we need as the people of Aweil is unity,” Madut said. “I have heard many people, both inside and outside the state, saying that Northern Bahr El Ghazal is lagging behind in terms of development, education, and economic opportunities. Sadly, some of these claims are true.”

The governor cited the growing number of street children and unemployed youth as visible signs of the state’s socioeconomic struggles. According to him, poverty has forced many young people to leave their homes in search of livelihoods elsewhere, often ending up in unsafe and exploitative work environments.

“When you travel to other regions such as Equatoria, you find many young men from Aweil engaged in dangerous jobs, including mining in areas like Jebel Iraq. These sites are not safe, yet our youth are there because they have no alternatives,” he warned.

Governor Madut emphasized that tackling these problems requires inclusive leadership that treats Northern Bahr El Ghazal as a home for all residents, regardless of their origins. He reaffirmed the state’s long-standing reputation for hospitality and peaceful coexistence.

“We are known for accommodating others with humility, and we must continue with that spirit,” he said. “The economic hardship we are experiencing affects everyone, and overcoming it demands cooperation between leaders and citizens alike.”

The governor pledged to work tirelessly in the coming year to change the face of the state within his capacity, guided by unity, transparency, and shared responsibility.

During the same event at St. George Catholic Church in Aweil, the Commissioner General of the National Revenue Authority, Hon. William Anyuon Kuol, announced a financial contribution from a government delegation accompanying the governor. The funds are intended to support the church committee in rehabilitating facilities, including the church fence.

Church leaders concluded the prayers by urging political leaders to uphold integrity and seek forgiveness as they commit to serving the public.