17/08/2026
Torit Commissioner Urges Haforiere Community to Choose Peace as Drought Deepens Food Crisis.
TORIT, Eastern Equatoria State – August 16, 2026.
The Mayor of Torit Municipal Council and Torit County Caretaker Commissioner has called on residents of Haforiere to unite against insecurity and embrace peace, warning that ongoing violence is compounding suffering caused by severe drought and food shortages.
The leaders made the appeal on Saturday during a field visit to Haforiere, where they met community members and assessed the impact of the prolonged dry spell on farms and livelihoods.
“Farms have been burnt by the sun”
Inspecting local gardens, the Mayor said the community is facing a humanitarian catastrophe.
“Your suffering is known to me. I have taken pictures of these gardens. The community is truly suffering from a catastrophe caused by the dry spell. The farms have been burnt due to prolonged sun heat,” he said.
He expressed concern that insecurity is blocking humanitarian assistance.
“When we ask our partners to bring food here, they say no because they fear insecurity. Even vehicles they want to hire refuse to come because they do not want to lose their lives,” the Mayor noted.
Call for youth to secure roads and end violence
The Mayor urged youth to take responsibility for protecting peace and keeping roads open for aid and movement.
“Our people must end bloodshed so that they can live in peace. People must move freely, and the roads must be safe. I have already appealed through the radio that the youth must clear the roads,” he said.
He also paid tribute to women, acknowledging their burden amid conflict.
“You women gave birth to us and made us who we are today. You have taken responsibility and managed family affairs. But instead of being happy, we men are now causing you suffering,” he said.
Citing the grief in many households, the Mayor appealed for an end to killings.
“Many of you are mourning your children and family members. Until when will this continue? Let us pray to God that this must end,” he said.
State message echoed: Reject violence
The Mayor reiterated Governor Louis Lobong Lojore’s call for peaceful coexistence and warned that communities harboring criminals would bear the consequences.
“Any village that commits crime or hides criminals will take responsibility for the consequences. This is not because we are against you, but because we want peace and security for everyone,” he warned.
He added that insecurity diverts resources and disrupts daily life.
“If forces are sent here because of insecurity, communities will face additional challenges. Instead, it is better for our people to prevent crime, report criminals, and maintain peace,” he said.
The Mayor assured residents of government commitment.
“I am not coming here as your enemy. I am coming as your son and your brother. I stand with you, and together we can build peace and improve the lives of our people,” he said.
Community leaders respond
Miss Ichaa Aliardo, a women’s representative from Haforiere, thanked the delegation for the visit.
“We want to thank our commissioner very much. Your coming here is appreciated. We are surviving because of your advice. Feel free at home; we will always cooperate with you. May God always be with us,” she said.
Kanuto Ekebek, Member of the Eastern Equatoria State Legislative Assembly and SPLM Chairperson for Veterans Affairs, also commended the welcome and urged hope.
“We thank you for your heroic welcome. You have made us feel strong and at home. We came here because we want you to live in peace. I know there is famine here, but God is great,” he said.
The visit is part of ongoing leadership engagements across Torit County to listen to citizens, promote peace, and mobilize collective action on challenges affecting livelihoods and development.
