The rising cases of theft and gang-related robberies in Juba should be a serious concern for both the government and the public.
Residents increasingly live in fear, particularly when moving during the evening and early morning hours.
While security forces have an important responsibility to protect civilians, improving security does not depend only on deploying more police officers.
The government must also invest in basic infrastructure that can help prevent crime before it happens. One of the most important measures is installing proper street lighting across Juba.
Many roads, residential areas, and public spaces in the city remain poorly lit or completely dark at night. Such conditions create opportunities for criminals to operate without being easily identified.
Dark streets can become hiding places for thieves and gang groups targeting pedestrians, motorists, and other vulnerable residents.
People travelling home from work, markets, hospitals, or social gatherings may find themselves exposed to unnecessary danger simply because there is no adequate lighting along the roads.
The government should therefore prioritise the installation of streetlights along major roads, residential streets, markets, bus parks, and other known crime hotspots.
Lighting should not be concentrated only in the city centre while communities on the outskirts continue to remain in darkness. Security is a right for every citizen, regardless of where they live.
Well-lit streets can discourage criminals by increasing visibility and making it easier for police, security personnel, and community members to identify suspicious activities.
Streetlights can also make it safer for people to travel at night, especially women, children, patients seeking emergency medical care, and workers returning home late.
However, installing lights alone will not completely end crime. The government must combine street lighting with regular police patrols, community policing, and a stronger response to criminal activities.
Residents should also cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious individuals and criminal incidents. Communities must not protect or remain silent about criminals operating within their neighbourhoods.
The relevant authorities should conduct an assessment to identify the darkest and most dangerous areas in Juba and immediately develop a plan for installing and maintaining streetlights.
The lighting system must also be properly managed to ensure that damaged lights are repaired and that the streets do not return to darkness after only a short period.
A safer Juba requires practical action. Lighting up streets and crime hotspots may appear to be a simple intervention, but it can have a significant impact on reducing opportunities for theft and gang robberies.
The government should act now to ensure that darkness does not continue to provide criminals with the cover they need to terrorise innocent residents.
God protect South Sudan
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