President Salva Kiir addresses a public rally in Aweil, Northern Bahr el Ghazal State on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. – Photo credit: Office of the President

President Salva Kiir has commended the prevailing peace and stability in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, calling on residents to safeguard and sustain the calm as he addressed a public rally in Aweil.

President Kiir arrived in Aweil, the state capital, on Tuesday to a large public reception as part of his ongoing tour of the Bahr el Ghazal region.

Thousands of residents lined the streets and chanted slogans of support to welcome the President as he travelled from his hometown of Akon in Gogrial West County of Warrap State.

Addressing a public rally at Aweil Freedom Square, President Kiir expressed satisfaction with the peaceful environment in Northern Bahr el Ghazal and called on residents to continue promoting peaceful coexistence and national unity.

Speaking in a mix of Arabic and Dinka, the President reiterated his government’s commitment to the peace process and to maintaining security across the country.

“I am happy to join you today in Aweil Town. You have given me a warm and overwhelming welcome. I saw people lined up along the roads from the moment I arrived. Your state is peaceful and secure, and I encourage you to continue preserving this peace and stability.

He also thanked residents for the warm reception he received on arrival.

President Kiir further pledged to rename the University of Northern Bahr el Ghazal to the University of Aweil, saying the move would support higher education and development in the state.

“The university here is currently called Northern Bahr el Ghazal University, but I would like to suggest renaming it the University of Aweil. I will take this proposal to Parliament, and if it is approved, the university will be established under that name,” he promoised.