By James Innocent
Yei River County witnessed the official handover of leadership for its youth association on Saturday, March 29, 2025, marking a significant moment for the county.
The peaceful transition, held in the presence of key stakeholders, saw the outgoing chairperson pass the torch to the newly elected leader.
Commissioner Emmanuel Taban Seme of Yei River County expressed his satisfaction with the democratic and peaceful election process.
He pledged county’s support for the youth association, promising a permanent plot of land for their activities, facilitated by the Department of Physical Infrastructure and Housing.
“The government always supports according to the budget,” he clarified, “but not beyond that. If there is money in the budget plan, we can allocate it to the youth association.”
Commissioner Seme also emphasized the vital role of youth in governance, urging them to collaborate with the government while understanding the responsibilities that come with freedom.
Outgoing chairperson, Johnson Poru, highlighted the need for agricultural development in Yei River County, given the looming threat of hunger in South Sudan.
He also stressed the importance of cultural preservation and encouraged young people to avoid laziness, tribalism, and nepotism, advocating for education as a pathway to a brighter future.
Poru outlined the challenges facing the youth association, including the lack of office space and equipment.
He appealed to Commissioner Seme for the allocation of gardens to youth groups and requested technical support from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and other partners.
Incoming chairperson, Gaga Frank, expressed gratitude to all attendees, including government representatives, partners, religious leaders, and the outgoing chairperson.
He vowed to build upon Poru’s legacy, focusing on asset creation for income generation, transparency, accountability, and development across all Payams (administrative divisions) of Yei River County.
Paramount Chief Joseph Brown Lomosee of Yei praised the youth association for its organizational efforts and commitment to peace.
He urged them to remain steadfast in their pursuit of peace through cooperation, reminding them, “This country belongs to you as the young people.”
James Mugwo Murithihi, the team leader and peace-building officer for UNMISS, commended the outgoing chairperson for adhering to the South Sudan Constitution by informing UNMISS of the leadership transition and seeking their support.
He acknowledged the youth association’s resilience and commitment to stability in the county.