By Baraka John
The Chairperson of the Civil Society Network in Western Equatoria State has called on the state government to urgently address alleged illegal taxation and harassment of farmers by soldiers deployed along major farm roads around Yambio.
The concerns were raised during a two-day “Citizens Talk” forum organized by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan in Yambio, bringing together government officials, peace actors, and community representatives to discuss pressing challenges affecting local communities.
Speaking at the forum, Civil Society Network Chairperson Wanga Emmanuel said many farmers are reportedly being forced to pay money at roadblocks while transporting produce from their farms.
“Our farmers should be able to move freely to and from their farms,” Emmanuel said. “If you are coming from your garden, you must first have money in your pocket. If you do not have money, you may never return home.”
Community members accused some security personnel of extorting civilians traveling to farming areas, warning that the practice is threatening food production and worsening the livelihoods of vulnerable households.
Emmanuel cautioned that continued restrictions on farmers could deepen hunger and economic hardship, especially at a time when many civil servants have gone months without salaries and families depend heavily on agriculture for survival.
The forum also discussed insecurity and administrative challenges in Western Equatoria State, with calls for the swift deployment of newly appointed county commissioners to help ease tensions between civilians and security forces.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Local Government in Western Equatoria State, Alison Barnaba, acknowledged the concerns raised by civil society groups and assured residents that the government remains committed to protecting the lives and livelihoods of citizens.
“In response to what I have heard from our people, especially the civil society, who are deeply concerned about the lives of the people, dialogue remains the only way to find solutions,” Barnaba said.
The minister emphasized that peace and proper management of security are necessary to ensure farmers can safely access their farms and continue agricultural activities. He also noted that Western Equatoria State has endured years of insecurity and challenges, calling for cooperation between the government, security forces, and communities to address the situation.