By James Innocent
Young women who are widows in Yei River County of Central Equatoria state resorts into street business which can improve employment among themselves
Before sunrise each morning, the smell of hot tea and freshly baked chapatti fills a small corner of Yei town. Behind the counter stands 30-year-old Annet Konga, a determined single mother of four, whose quiet perseverance tells a story of strength and hope amid hardship.
Annet began her small business three years ago after completing a six-month catering and entrepreneurship training in Uganda. With little start-up capital, she returned home to Yei and began selling chapatti and tea along a busy roadside to support her children’s education.
“I started this business to make sure my children go to school and have food,” she said, smiling as she flips a chapatti on a hot pan. “Life became hard, but I decided to work instead of sitting and crying. As a mother, you must stand for your children.”
Eleven years ago, Annet’s husband left her for another woman without paying dowry, leaving her to raise their children alone. Since then, she has relied solely on her own effort to keep her family afloat. Her determination has earned her respect in her community.
“I advise all single and married mothers to work hard. No job is too small if it helps you care for your family,” Annet said.
However, Annet’s success unfolds against a backdrop of severe economic hardship. Since the renewed conflict in 2016, South Sudan has faced worsening economic instability, inflation, and unemployment. Many families continue to struggle to meet basic needs as prices of food and fuel soar.
The situation has left thousands of young people jobless, with some turning to robbery, gang violence, and other criminal activities to survive.
Emmanuel Taban Seme, Commissioner of Yei River County, expressed deep concern over the rise in youth crime, warning that it is destroying the future of young people and destabilizing communities.
“I have seen many young people suffering in Yei Prison. I urge our youth to stay away from criminal activities,” Commissioner Taban said. “It is better to be creative and start something small in town than to join the wrong elements.”
Similarly, Gaga Frank, Youth Leader of the Yei River County Youth Association, echoed the commissioner’s call, urging youth to focus on agriculture, innovation, and skill development instead of crime.
“Our youths must stay away from violence. Agriculture and small businesses can change lives if we work together,” he said.
Frank appealed to the government and development partners to provide more vocational training and employment opportunities to equip young people with practical skills in carpentry, tailoring, and mechanics, helping them find sustainable jobs and build peaceful livelihoods.
As Annet serves another customer with a warm smile, her story remains a beacon of resilience. Despite the challenges facing South Sudan, she continues to work hard for her children’s future — proving that even in the toughest times, courage and determination can light the way forward.