South Sudanese journalist Emmanuel Joseph Akile, a senior broadcaster with Eye Radio, has died after a brief illness, the station confirmed on Tuesday.
He passed away at Gudele Hospital in Juba following a two-day hospitalization.
Akile was a respected and influential voice in South Sudan’s media landscape, best known as the long-time host of Eye Radio’s flagship morning programme, The Dawn Show, a role he held since 2016.
Through the programme, he earned a reputation for professionalism, analytical depth, and calm moderation of national conversations at critical political moments.
Throughout his career, Akile played a prominent role in informing the public on peace and political developments in the country.
He extensively covered major diplomatic engagements, including the Addis Ababa peace talks and, most recently, the Kenya-mediated Tumaini Initiative in Nairobi, helping audiences understand complex negotiations shaping South Sudan’s future.
Born in 1989 and hailing from Central Equatoria State, Akile also authored numerous news reports and in-depth features on diplomacy, peace processes, and governance.
His work was widely regarded for its accuracy, balance, and public-interest focus, contributing to Eye Radio’s standing as one of the country’s most trusted news outlets.
In recognition of his contribution to journalism, Akile was awarded Radio Journalist of the Year at the 2023 Junub Talent Awards, an honor that reflected his growing influence and dedication to ethical reporting.
Colleagues at Eye Radio said Akile had only begun his Christmas holiday leave last week before falling ill.
News of his sudden death has since triggered an outpouring of grief from journalists, listeners, civil society organizations, and members of the public across the country.
In a statement, Eye Radio management described him as a committed professional whose impact would be long remembered.
“Akile was a resourceful journalist and a dedicated colleague whose contribution to South Sudan’s media landscape is immeasurable,” the statement read.
The Association for Media Development in South Sudan (AMDISS) also expressed deep sorrow over his passing, extending condolences to his family and colleagues.
“Mr. Akile demonstrated exceptional professionalism in his reporting, especially covering the peace processes in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and the Kenya-mediated Tumaini Initiative. His hosting of Eye Radio’s The Dawn Show positively impacted the lives of many South Sudanese,” AMDISS said in a condolence message issued by its Office of the Chairperson.
AMDISS noted that Akile’s death has left a significant void in the media fraternity and called for solidarity with his family during the period of mourning.
“His passing has left a void, and we will always remember his contribution to the media fraternity in the country. We mourn his untimely death and call for solidarity with the bereaved family during this difficult time. May his gentle soul rest in eternal peace,” the statement concluded.
Akile’s death marks a profound loss for South Sudan’s journalism community at a time when credible, professional media remains vital to peacebuilding, accountability, and public discourse.
