Lupai Samuel Kenyi, the Executive Director of the “I Am Peace Organization,” has called on South Sudan’s unity government to end the transition period and prioritize development.
In an interview with Standard Zone News, Kenyi emphasized that the people of South Sudan yearn for progress and stability over conflict.
“My message to the government is that we should end the transition period and focus on developing our country,” Kenyi appealed.
He urged political party leaders to engage in dialogue for the betterment of the nation. “To the political leaders, try to dialogue with people who are opposing you and find a way of working together as leaders of the country.”
Kenyi also directed his message to the youth, encouraging them to reject tribal divisions perpetuated by politics and instead embrace unity.
“It is high time for young people to look beyond political agreements and cultivate meaningful relationships as young leaders of the country,” he said “As young people, we need to focus on unity and resist politicians who divide us along tribal lines so that we do not create more conflict in the country.”
South Sudan continues to face significant development challenges, including poverty, economic instability, and political fragility, exacerbated by ongoing conflict.
Despite receiving substantial international donations for development, the country has struggled with issues in agriculture, health, education, and infrastructure.
According to USAID, billions of dollars were allocated in 2019 for long-term aid to support South Sudan in areas such as agriculture, health, democracy and governance, education, and conflict mitigation.
However, progress has been hindered by instability and mismanagement.
During a 2019 visit to South Sudan, Kip Tom, the U.S. Ambassador to the UN agencies in Rome, expressed concern over the allocation of funds.
He argued that resources intended for emergencies could be redirected toward infrastructure development and economic strengthening if violence ceased.
“We would rather put our money into development, to create resilience and capacity, because that is our only true pathway to peace and security,” Tom stated. “We’ve got to hold people accountable—those who are not making this place safe.”
Kenyi’s call for unity and development reflects the broader aspirations of South Sudanese citizens, who hope for a future defined by peace and progress rather than conflict and division.
