Road linking the capital of Lakes state to Maper in Rumbek North County|Courtesy

The government of Lakes State has banned all illegal roadblocks across the state in a move aimed at improving trade and easing the movement of people.

Speaking to Eye Radio on Tuesday, the State Minister of Information, William Kogi Kirjok, said all unauthorized roadblocks have been removed from roads throughout the state.

He said the initiative began under the previous administration and has been maintained by the current leadership to support economic activity and facilitate travel for residents and other road users.

Kirjok also called on authorities in neighboring states to remove roadblocks in their areas, in line with resolutions reached during the recent governors’ forum. He said such roadblocks continue to disrupt trade and contribute to high consumer prices.

“Every territory of Lakes State, from Awerial to Maloupiny, now has no roadblocks,” he said. “This is to enhance local trade among our people and ease movement for citizens and South Sudanese passing through the state.”

He added that while legal checkpoints remain in place as provided for under the law, all illegal roadblocks must be dismantled.