Columnists

Government should construct more schools in rural areas

Education is the foundation of national development, yet thousands of children living in rural areas of South Sudan continue to face enormous challenges in accessing quality education. Many villages have no schools at all, forcing children to walk long distances every day or abandon their education altogether. This situation undermines[Read More…]

OPINION: Why government must incentivise the private sector, not politics

Writer: Garang Atomdit Today, many of our brightest young people are choosing sycophancy over skills. Not because they lack talent, but because the system makes praising power more profitable than solving problems. A young man who spends his day clapping for an official gets a meal today. Another who spends[Read More…]

OPINION: Six months since the governor of Lakes State Maj. Gen. Madhang Majok took office, insecurity remains

By Marial Lom Ayual Upon the appointment of Governor Major General Madhang Majok Meen, people were very happy, believing that he would pick up from where the former governor, General Rin Tueny Mabor, left the state of affairs. General Rin Tueny displayed all the security resources, including armoured vehicles and[Read More…]

OPINION: Equal pay is needed, and wage exploitation must end in South Sudan

By: Engr. Maker Mangol Acien Yuol  South Sudan’s workforce, managed by the Ministry of Labour and Public Service and powering international organisations, NGOs, private companies, and government institutions, is the engine of national development. Yet despite their indispensable contributions, many South Sudanese workers continue to face systemic underpayment, inconsistent job[Read More…]

Can a ceasefire be implemented before South Sudan’s December elections?

As South Sudan prepares for the anticipated elections scheduled for December 22, one question continues to dominate public discourse: Can a nationwide ceasefire be effectively implemented and maintained before citizens head to the polls? The answer is yes, but only if political leaders place the nation’s interests above partisan competition[Read More…]

OpEd: South Sudan’s path to energy security lies in integrated renewable energy

By Ajak John Ateng For far too long, South Sudan has been caught between abundant natural wealth and persistent energy poverty. While the nation possesses vast resources, millions of citizens still struggle with unreliable electricity, forcing businesses, schools, hospitals, and households to depend on costly diesel generators and imported fuel.[Read More…]

South Sudan must ensure good road connectivity and security before elections

As South Sudan moves closer to its anticipated general elections, attention is increasingly focused on electoral preparations. While institutions are working to implement the electoral calendar, the country must first address two fundamental issues that will determine whether the elections are peaceful, inclusive, and credible: road connectivity and security. Free[Read More…]

NATIONTALKS: Elections must be a contest of ideas, not conflict

The announcement by the National Elections Commission (NEC) that South Sudan will hold its general elections on 22 December 2026 marks a defining moment in the country’s democratic journey. The date is now set, and the responsibility shifts to political parties, leaders, institutions, and citizens to ensure that the electoral[Read More…]

OPINION: University of Juba should own a clinic or university hospital

Writer: Engr. Maker Mangol Acien Yuol The University of Juba, South Sudan’s premier centre of higher learning, must urgently prioritise the health and well-being of its students and staff by establishing an on-campus clinic and laying a clear roadmap toward a teaching hospital. A modest, well-planned clinic would deliver immediate[Read More…]

African Union should strengthen strategies for ensuring peace in South Sudan

The pursuit of lasting peace in South Sudan remains one of Africa’s most important responsibilities. More than a decade after independence, the country continues to face political tensions, intercommunal conflicts, displacement, and humanitarian challenges that have slowed development and affected the lives of millions. While significant efforts have been made[Read More…]

Global Logistics convention offers South Sudan a chance to redefine its image

South Sudan’s selection to host the first-ever Global Logistics Convention (GLC)—7th Edition in the country is more than just an international conference. It is a landmark opportunity to demonstrate that the world’s youngest nation is ready to engage with global business, strengthen regional trade, and position itself as an emerging[Read More…]

OPINION: End the agreement, hold free and fair 2026 elections

By Engr. Maker Mangol Acien Yuol  South Sudan’s revitalised transitional government of national unity is coming to an end on 26th June 2026. An agreement intended to stabilise the country has, after more than six years, failed to deliver accountable basic services or a durable peace. Open‑ended power‑sharing entrenches unaccountable[Read More…]

OPINION: High dowry demands are delaying marriage and creating a social crisis

By James Innocent ‎‎Marriage has long been one of the most respected events in South Sudanese society. It is a foundation for family, community unity, and cultural continuity. However, the growing economic hardship facing the country has exposed a challenge that many communities can no longer ignore. The increasing cost[Read More…]

Communities must reject division and embrace peace

South Sudan stands at a defining moment in its history. As the country moves toward elections, peace and stability must remain the shared responsibility of every citizen. While political leaders have a duty to guide the nation responsibly, communities also carry the important obligation of preventing violence and refusing to[Read More…]