The Government of Central Equatoria State (CES) has launched Equator Broadcasting Corporation (EBC) Television alongside the Central Equatoria State Newspaper, marking a significant step in reviving public media after years of limited operations.
The Juba-based launch brought together government officials, journalists, civil society actors, and development partners, highlighting a renewed commitment to access to information, civic education, and freedom of expression in the state.
Speaking during the opening event, Central Equatoria State Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony said the launch of Equator Broadcasting Corporation (EBC) Radio and Television alongside the Central Equatoria State Newspaper marked the fulfillment of a long-standing dream of the state government.
The governor acknowledged the presence of county commissioners, the Mayor of Juba City, state officials, traditional and religious leaders, journalists, and development partners, describing the occasion as historic for Central Equatoria State.
He noted that the idea of establishing a strong public media institution was conceived years ago by previous administrations but was disrupted by economic challenges and other constraints that affected operations and transmission.
Governor Adil said the revival of EBC demonstrates the government’s renewed commitment to restoring public service media and applauded the dedication of the station’s staff, emphasizing that the relaunch was made possible largely through their resilience and sacrifice.
He stressed that the broadcaster should serve not only as a voice of government but, more importantly, as a platform for the people to express their views, exchange ideas, and contribute to better governance.
He assured the public that the state government remains committed to supporting the media institution, particularly in addressing challenges related to electricity supply, mobility, and technical capacity, to ensure uninterrupted broadcasting across Juba and the counties.
The governor also pledged that EBC and the state newspaper would operate with editorial independence and adhere to professional journalism ethics.
“We are open to constructive criticism,” Adil said, adding that media plays a critical role in accountability and good governance.
He further explained that the newspaper would not only report government activities but also gather feedback from citizens, ensuring inclusive participation in public affairs.
He concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to freedom of expression and thanked all stakeholders for supporting the revival of public media in the state.
In his address, Patrick Oyet, President of the Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS), welcomed the relaunch of EBC and the state newspaper, describing it as a positive step toward promoting peace, civic education, and national development.
Oyet emphasized that a free, professional, and collaborative media environment is essential for transforming society and strengthening democracy.
However, he raised concerns over continued challenges facing journalists, including arrests and restrictions, calling on authorities to guarantee media freedom and protect journalists in the course of their work.
He reaffirmed UJOSS’s readiness to support EBC through training, mentorship, and technical cooperation, stressing that media institutions should complement—not compete with—one another in serving the public interest.
Both speakers agreed that the revival of EBC Radio and Television and the launch of the Central Equatoria State Newspaper represent a hopeful step toward building an inclusive, informed, and peaceful society in Central Equatoria State and South Sudan at large.
