By Lodu William Odiya
President Salva Kiir Mayardit has directed the Ministry of Information and other relevant government institutions to urgently address challenges facing the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC).
In a statement that was released by his press department on Thursday, the head of state stressed that the national broadcaster must be fully prepared to serve the country as it approaches the December general elections.
The president issued the directive after receiving a progress report from the Minister of Information, Ateny Wek Ateny, on the operational challenges confronting the national broadcasting house.
“President Kiir underscored the strategic importance of SSBC and called for coordinated action to strengthen its capacity, professionalism, and effectiveness,” the statement partly read.
“He directed the relevant institutions to work together to resolve the broadcaster’s challenges and ensure that SSBC is equipped to effectively inform, educate, and entertain the people of South Sudan,” the statement continued.
The Head of State emphasised that a strong and functional public broadcaster remains essential for national development, unity, and public service, particularly at a critical time when the country is preparing for general elections.
Meanwhile, Minister Ateny also briefed the President on his recent participation in the China-Africa Digital Cooperation engagement, where the Digital Cooperation Center for China and Africa was officially opened.
According to Ateny, the engagement highlighted opportunities for strengthened digital cooperation and technological development between China and African countries.