By Sabri Dibaco
Former Presidential Affairs Minister and prominent Azande leader, Joseph Bangasi Bakosoro, has called on Azande youth to actively participate in public affairs, embrace innovation, and pursue career development to contribute meaningfully to the progress of their communities.
Speaking at the Azande Global Youth Conference, which brought together Azande youth from around the world, Bakosoro encouraged young people to take leadership roles in society and become agents of positive change by actively engaging in social, economic, and political activities.
“The future of our community depends on the participation of young people in public activities. Do not remain spectators; be part of the decision-making processes that shape our society,” Bakosoro said.
He urged the youth to embrace creativity and innovation as tools for addressing challenges facing their communities and creating employment opportunities.
“Innovation is the key to progress. Young people must use their talents, knowledge, and creativity to develop solutions that can transform our communities and improve livelihoods,” he added.
Bakosoro also emphasised the importance of career guidance, encouraging youth to identify their strengths, pursue education, and develop professional skills that align with their ambitions.
“Choose careers that match your abilities and passions. Education, discipline, and hard work are the foundations of a successful future,” Bakosoro stressed
The former adviser further encouraged young people to become job creators rather than job seekers, echoing his long-standing advocacy for youth empowerment and self-reliance.
Participants welcomed the message, describing it as timely guidance for young people seeking opportunities in leadership, entrepreneurship, and professional development.
Mary Mbikoyo, a participant, said that she has learned a lot from the conference, citing that it should be held every year.
“This conference has highlighted to me new things that I didn’t know before, and if it continues like this, our Azande youth mentality will change,” Mbikoyo said.
On his part, the chairperson of the Azande Supreme Welfare organisation, Kango Dominic, thanked the government of the Central Equatoria state for the hospitality and for accepting the Azande community to carry out their activities, citing that its sign of unity in South Sudan.
Kango also confirmed that the conference will be held annually and the conference will take place in Yambio next year, calling on the government of the state to support the initiative for its success.
The conference brought together Azande youth all over the world, as more than three Azande youth and others were attending online, and more than 500 people attended in person in Juba.