Gen. James Koang|Photo Courtesy

Upper Nile State Governor Lt. Gen. James Koang Chuol has called on residents to embrace hard work, community service, and agriculture, while unveiling plans to recognize individuals who make meaningful contributions to society.

Speaking at his office in Malakal on Wednesday, Koang said leadership should be measured by the positive impact people leave behind rather than the positions they hold.

The governor made the remarks while receiving a traditional gift, known as a “Bul”, from members of the Dongjol community of Akoka County and county officials who visited him as a sign of respect and support.

Koang said he has established an honour list containing names of people from across Upper Nile’s counties and stressed that recognition should be earned through service to the public.

“I collected the names of people from all the counties. But if you do not do something good, you will not be on the honour list. People should not just sit like idle and say you were once a governor. You were governor but what did you do for the people?” he said.

He said the initiative is intended to encourage public service and inspire current and future leaders to prioritize the welfare of citizens.

“We speak one language and we are one people,” Koang said. “If one of you becomes a governor one day, do something that will benefit your people.”

The governor also stressed the importance of agriculture as a means of improving livelihoods and addressing food insecurity in the state. He urged residents to make productive use of their land, noting that prosperity comes through work and self-reliance.

Koang further called for unity among communities, saying differences that have emerged over time should be addressed by the current generation to build a stronger and more peaceful Upper Nile.

Community representatives from Dongjol County praised the governor’s leadership and presented the traditional gift as a symbol of goodwill and cooperation.

The visit comes as state authorities continue efforts to promote stability, development, and reconciliation across Upper Nile State.