The Governor of Eastern Equatoria State is urging South Sudanese people to embrace peace.

Mr Louis Lobong says the warring parties should work to restore peace in order to allow organizations provide services to the people of South Sudan.

“This is my word, I need peace, not in Eastern Equatoria alone, but all over South Sudan,” Mr Lobong told the 4^TH Governors’ Forum yesterday.

He also urged the government to initiate direct talks with the opposition.

“We should talk direct with Dr. Riek Machar and his group instead of relying on other people for mediation.”

“Let’s initiate and talk to them directly. And if we talk to them and everybody in South Sudan talk to themselves about the importance of peace, the result of peace and about the disadvantages of war, for sure we will bring lasting peace to South Sudan.”

Governor Lobong said the current crisis has deprived many children the opportunity of going to school in conflict affected areas.