The Governor of Unity State has called on the Christians faithful to place peace at the center of their efforts for sustainable development.
Speaking during the Christmas service at St. Martin
Deporest, Diocese of Bentiu, Riek Bim Top underscored the significance of unity
and harmony in fostering progress for the entire community.
“The governor highlighted the importance of Christmas to the
Christians, as it is a day of repentance, confession, and, above all, a renewal
of our union with God,” said governor’s office.
“He emphasized that Christmas is not only a time for
celebration but also a moment for reflection, repentance, confession, and
renewal of one’s relationship with God.”
Bim reminded the faithful that peace is essential for
long-term prosperity and that only through unity can the state overcome its
challenges and move towards a brighter future.
He urged the Christians to embrace dialogue as a means of
resolving conflicts, fostering mutual understanding and respect among different
groups within the state.
The governor told the congregation that, despite the
challenges, they could rebuild Bentiu and the wider Unity State through
collective effort and a shared commitment to peace and prosperity.
Addressing past challenges, the leader specifically appealed
to locals residing in Protection of Civilians (POC) sites, urging them to
return and participate in the reconstruction of their communities.
“He continued to call on locals at the POCs to come out to
rebuild Bentiu together,” his office stated.
The governor called on all residents to actively engage in
the state’s agricultural initiatives, which he believes will be key to driving
economic growth and providing sustainable livelihoods for the people.
On the other hand, Bim expressed heartfelt condolences to
those affected by the recent cholera outbreak, offering sympathies to families
who had lost loved ones.
As of December 24, health authorities in Unity State
reported 5,403 suspected cholera cases and over 101 related deaths since the
outbreak was declared in October 2024.
The state is facing challenges such as an awareness gap, a
lack of water, sanitation, and hygiene points in many areas, and limited access
to clean and safe drinking water.
Cholera, caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, is a
highly infectious disease that primarily spreads through contaminated food or
water. If left untreated, it can lead to severe dehydration and death.
Outbreaks are more common in regions with poor sanitation
and limited access to clean drinking water, especially after natural disasters,
conflicts, or periods of political instability.
Symptoms of cholera include severe diarrhea, vomiting, and rapid dehydration, which can progress within hours if not addressed.