Girls and young women must prioritize education and resist early marriages to strengthen our communities. Across the globe, educated women are empowered and play crucial roles in society.

Unfortunately, in South Sudan, many families still view girls as commodities to be traded for financial gain, often due to a lack of education and awareness of the value of investing in a girl’s future.

This issue is not limited to wealthy families; even those who pursue education can fall victim to exploitation by certain government officials, businessmen, NGO workers, and teachers, driven by the pull of money. The proliferation of luxurious hotels and businesses in our country often overshadows the importance of education, and we must ask ourselves: why is education not prioritized before marriage?

Ladies, focus on your future! Don’t be swayed by material distractions or succumb to the pressures that come with money. Educate yourselves, become empowered individuals, and seek partners who respect and understand you.

Historically, the then-southern Sudan struggled with a poorly established education system during the British era, lacking proper infrastructure, resources, and curriculum. Missionaries stepped in to provide formal education, hoping to empower Southern Sudanese as active citizens. However, after gaining independence in 1956, civil wars disrupted education, with the post-independence government responding to insurgencies with violence. The subsequent Arabization policies further marginalized education in the South, leaving many without access to learning.

In 1983, Southern Sudanese rebels, led by the Sudan People’s Liberation Army/Movement (SPLA/M), fought against this deprivation, aiming to establish a better future for their people. Yet today, the leadership continues to neglect the importance of gender education. In conflict zones, girls are often victims of violence, including rape, with laws existing but rarely enforced.

I urge the government to implement strict laws to combat gender-based issues and prevent underage marriages, providing free education is essential to empower our youth and secure a brighter future for girls in South Sudan.

God protect South Sudan.

Be right there!