(KAJO KEJI COUNTY) – The Kajo Keji Community Organization has asked the Central Equatoria State Government to speed up construction of the Juba to Kajo Keji road, saying the poor condition of the route is affecting movement, trade and community services.
The appeal was made during a meeting between the community group, led by Aggrey Tisa Sabuni, and Governor Emmanuel Adil in Juba on Wednesday. The delegation congratulated the Governor on his recent re appointment and expressed confidence in the direction of the State administration. They also noted that improving major transport routes is critical for South Sudan’s economic activity.
The group said the road has become very difficult to use, which is limiting travel between Kajo Keji and the capital. They added that better road access would help local markets and allow communities to link more easily with suppliers and service providers in Juba.
Other issues raised included border disputes with Yumbe District in Uganda, continued presence of Ambororo cattle herders in the area, and a request for stronger enforcement of the State order stopping logging in the county. The organization said these problems are affecting stability and economic activity along the frontier, where trade with Uganda remains important for local livelihoods.
Governor Emmanuel Adil asked communities to remain calm while State authorities continue working with local leaders and security officials to ease tensions along the borderline. He said joint engagements and community dialogue are underway to improve relations and reduce conflict in the area.
The Governor voiced full support for starting work on the Juba to Kajo Keji road and said he will prioritise it as he begins a tour of the State. He added that his office will coordinate with relevant agencies to ensure the concerns raised by the community are addressed.
A functioning road between Juba and Kajo Keji is seen as a major factor for trade, transport services and investment in Central Equatoria. Businesses and travellers say the current state of the route increases transport costs and slows economic activity in a region that depends heavily on the movement of goods between South Sudan and Uganda.
Communities Demand Better Access Between Juba and Kajo Keji
| Topic | Summary |
|---|---|
| Main Issue | Call for quick start of the Juba to Kajo Keji road works |
| Location | Kajo Keji County, Central Equatoria State |
| Key Actors | Kajo Keji Community Organization and Governor Emmanuel Adil |
| Other Concerns | Border tensions with Yumbe, presence of Ambororo herders, and need to enforce the logging ban |
| Governor’s Position | Supports the road project and ongoing peace and security efforts |
| Business Impact | Poor road conditions affecting trade, access and transport efficiency |
Local traders say these costs reduce their profit margins and limit the volume of goods they can move. Community leaders maintain that upgrading the road will help reduce expenses, improve security and attract new businesses to the region.
