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Eastern Equatoria – Al-Wadi Newspaper
The Governor of Eastern Equatoria State, Louis Lobong Lojore, has called for enhanced unity and cross-border cooperation with the Ateker communities spanning South Sudan and Kenya, emphasizing the importance of joint efforts to achieve peace and development in the region.
The governor’s remarks came during a meeting held last week with leaders of the Ateker communities, where discussions focused on strengthening cooperation and regional integration among the shared communities.
A statement from the governor’s office highlighted Lobong’s emphasis on the need for community-led initiatives that respect national sovereignty while also contributing to shared development goals. “Regional integration is a privilege, not a threat,” Lobong stated. “It must be pursued within the framework of official government structures and international borders, with the aim of supporting peace, unity, and prosperity.”
The Ateker Cluster includes communities from South Sudan, Kenya, Uganda, and Ethiopia, and is currently working to establish a unified institutional framework. In this context, Kenya’s Presidential Envoy on Ateker Affairs, John Munyes, announced a roadmap that includes the appointment of group leaders, the formation of an executive body, and the creation of specialized committees.
Munyes confirmed that “the institutional framework for the Ateker Cluster is in its final stages,” adding that the draft constitution will soon be circulated for review before being presented to the General Assembly for adoption.
The meeting brought together traditional leaders, government officials, and representatives from civil society organizations, all of whom expressed their commitment to strengthening inter-community relations and addressing common challenges such as underdevelopment, limited access to services, and insecurity.
Governor Lobong urged Ateker leaders to raise awareness within their communities about the benefits of regional collaboration, stressing that such efforts should complement — not replace — national governance systems.
The meeting concluded with a joint commitment to convene a major Ateker Conference following the review of the draft constitution by the four clusters, marking a new chapter in regional dialogue and grassroots diplomacy.
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