(WESTERN EQUATORIA STATE) – A delegation from Equatorial Teak Company, based in Nzara County, has raised serious concerns over land disputes threatening its agricultural operations during a courtesy visit to Governor Barrister James Al Taib Jazz Berapai.
The company’s delegation, led by Mr Ian Peterson, initially commended the new Governor for his swift engagement with investors, but stressed that unresolved land encroachment could undermine both its business and wider agricultural development in the region.
Governor Berapai, who assumed office just a week ago, welcomed the delegation and described private investment as central to Western Equatoria’s economic growth. He called for unity between the private sector, local communities, and government, saying his administration will support investors while safeguarding the interests of citizens.
“We encourage all investors and companies to support the community on the ground. My administration is open to collaboration and we will ensure that the people of Western Equatoria benefit from such initiatives,” the Governor said.
Mr Peterson praised the Governor for receiving the company, adding that Equatorial Teak Company remained committed to contributing to South Sudan’s economic growth. He invited the Governor to visit Nzara to see the company’s agricultural projects, which include coffee and other cash crops.
However, Peterson also warned that the firm is facing mounting challenges. “We are facing serious land disputes that not only threaten our operations but also risk undermining agricultural development in South Sudan. We trust in your leadership to give this issue the attention it deserves,” he said.
Company representative Mr Angel Ngbaya explained that more than 200 acres of farmland in Nzara County, where the company holds a 30 year use obligation, had been encroached upon. The company alleges that some of the land has been illegally occupied by individuals believed to have crossed from the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Reports from Nzara suggest growing tension between local communities and foreign settlers, raising fears of potential clashes if the issue is not resolved.
Governor Berapai assured the company that his government would act decisively to protect lawful investments and prevent land disputes from disrupting stability. He stressed that non-citizens must respect South Sudanese laws and that land issues should not become a source of insecurity.
“We must ensure that land ownership disputes do not cause problems between companies, communities, and the government. My administration is committed to protecting legitimate investments while safeguarding the interests of our people,” the Governor said.
Land disputes are a frequent source of conflict in South Sudan, particularly in fertile areas such as Western Equatoria, where commercial agriculture often intersects with community land rights and cross border migration.
The Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Housing, Land and Public Utility, and Nzara County authorities are expected to follow up on the company’s grievances.
The investor has warned that without solutions, land disputes risk discouraging private investment in agriculture – a sector seen as vital to diversifying South Sudan’s oil dependent economy and creating employment.
Issues Around Equatorial Teak Company’s Land Dispute
| Issue | Details | Potential Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Land ownership | 200 acres under 30 year obligation to Equatorial Teak Company | Encroachment threatens investment security |
| Encroachment | Company alleges illegal occupation by individuals crossing from DRC | Tensions between settlers and local residents |
| Agricultural projects | Coffee and other cash crops in Nzara County | Risk of reduced output and employment |
| Government response | Governor pledges to protect investments | Confidence boost for private sector if enforced |