By James Innocent
Women leaders and community representatives in Yei River County, Central Equatoria State, have raised concerns over the heavy dowry charges.
Several members condemned the use of young girls as sources of income through high bride price.
The concerned came in during one marriage negotiations.
Hellen Ciama, Chairlady of the Yei Women’s Association, called on local leaders to engage communities on the rising expectations imposed on families of grooms.
She said the trend is putting pressure on young men and reducing the social value of women to mere economic gain.
Ciama appealed to cultural and community stakeholders to preserve traditional marriage practices in ways that strengthen families rather than breaking them apart.
Representing civil society, Mama Hawa Adam stressed the need for reform in South Sudan’s education system, noting that other countries incorporate traditional arts and cultural studies into early learning.
She said the lack of cultural training has led to declining respect and discipline among some youth.
“Many girls and boys today lack cultural ethics, and this has affected how they behave in society,” she said.
Religious leader Emmanuel Kiden also encouraged young people to adopt responsible dressing and behavior, warning that family conflicts and poverty remain major drivers of early marriage.
She urged girls to avoid choices that may endanger their future and to listen to parental guidance.
Pokula Chief Sebit Felix advised families to avoid laziness and strengthen discipline at home, saying parental guidance plays a major role in shaping children’s futures.
The remarks were made during a two-day intergenerational conference organized by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) with support from the United Nations Multi-Partner Trust Fund.
The training, held at the ECS Guest House in Yei, brought together more than 50 participants from various community groups and institutions.
The conference focused on bridging generational gaps to promote reconciliation, peaceful coexistence, and social inclusion across Yei River County.