As South Sudan moves toward its first democratic elections, the nation’s youth are being actively prepared with the tools necessary for meaningful political participation, ensuring their voices are critical for a peaceful and democratic future.
On Thursday, October 16, 2025, a “Youth Dialogue on Practical Tools for Public Engagement,” held at the South Sudan Council of Churches, brought together young leaders, students, and civil society representatives for a day of intensive training.
Organized by Democracy Reporting International (DRI), with support from the UN and the European Union, the dialogue focused on building practical skills in communication, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement.
Experts led interactive exercises and discussions, allowing participants to share experiences, develop their own action plans, and receive information, methods, and templates to continue their civic work.
The platform enabled youth leaders and experts to explore effective and user-friendly methods for meaningful participation in governance and public life.
Given that South Sudan is preparing for the 2026 elections, organizers underscored the crucial role of youth as agents of democratic change, peacebuilding, and accountability.
Speaking at the opening of the dialogue, Barnaba Mayor Deng, the Director General of Public Outreach and External Relations at the National Election Commission, stressed the importance of involving young people in political life.
“We want to educate and empower youth, women, persons with disabilities, and other legal workers about their political rights, including the right to vote,” he stated.
Deng elaborated on the meaning of democracy in South Sudan, describing it as a system governed by the people, where majority decisions include minority representation.
He urged citizens to familiarize themselves with the three levels of government: local, state, and national.
“Understanding your government is vital,” he said, noting that elections are a core part of governance.
With youth making up over 75% of South Sudan’s population, Deng outlined the opportunities available to them.
“Any citizen over 18 can vote, and those aged 21 and above can run for legislative office,” he explained. He encouraged young people to engage with political parties to ensure their voices are heard.
“You have a chance to stand as an independent candidate. You have a chance to go to the party lists. What is remaining now is to go to political parties… so that you get a chance.”
Meanwhile, Suzan Alfred, an entrepreneur and participant in the dialogue, urged the youth to seize the opportunity and join politics.
“My message to the youth of South Sudan: let us all wake up,” declared Suzan Alfred, an entrepreneur and event participant. “Too often, youth are not aware and not engaged. We should not wait for opportunities; let us go and grab them.”
She however criticized the tendency for youth to be used in conflicts while being excluded from critical decision-making processes, emphasizing the need for unity and a focus on peace and development.
Suzan also pointed out the challenges faced by young women in politics, including cultural norms that marginalize them, financial barriers, and a lack of credibility.
“Politics is not just for men; it’s for everyone,” she asserted, calling for greater inclusion of women in political spaces.
Jackson Juma, another participant and youth leader, stressed the importance of capacity building for young people.
“Politics isn’t just for politicians; it’s for everyone who dreams of change,” he said, encouraging his peers to engage actively in political processes.
The dialogue formed part of a four-month civic engagement program aimed at empowering young South Sudanese to engage effectively with public institutions and influence decision-making processes.
As the 2026 elections approach, the voices of South Sudan’s youth, women, and persons with disabilities are central to shaping the nation’s future.
