Senior government officials and civil society leaders have underscored the central role of young women in shaping South Sudan’s peace, unity, and long-term development, urging them to step confidently into leadership and civic life.
The call was made during a youth training and brainstorming session held in Juba, which brought together policymakers, civil society actors, and university students to reflect on patriotism, governance, and inclusive nation-building.
Addressing the gathering, Mary Apai, Third Deputy Chairperson of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement, challenged young people particularly women to take ownership of the country’s future.
She urged them to look beyond present hardships and recognize opportunities in technology, business, and innovation.
“You will never get another country better than this one,” Apai said, stressing that nation-building demands patriotism, unity, and collective responsibility.
She described South Sudan’s current challenges as temporary and cautioned against divisions based on past roles in the liberation struggle, noting that the war was fought to secure a free and just nation for all citizens.
Reinforcing the message, Pia Philip Michael, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Peacebuilding, emphasized that peace is the bedrock of development.
He urged youth to reject violence and political manipulation, saying progress can only take root where peace prevails.
Civil society leaders highlighted practical efforts to elevate young women’s voices.
Jackline Bage, Country Coordinator of the Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa, said the initiative is intentionally creating spaces for young women to engage in civic and political leadership.
She noted that the UN Peacebuilding Fund-supported Youth Governance Toolkit has mobilized more than 35 young women leaders and paired them with 45 mentors nationwide.
Bage called on policymakers to create enabling conditions for youth inclusion, stressing that meaningful transformation requires intergenerational dialogue and women’s active participation in decision-making.
The session concluded with renewed appeals for patriotism, reconciliation, and inclusive governance, as participants committed to translating dialogue into concrete community actionplacing young women firmly at the heart of South Sudan’s peace and leadership journey.
