Commentary

NATION TALK: Warring parties must protect health facilities and stop looting

Health facilities are essential institutions that provide life-saving services to communities, especially during periods of conflict. Warring parties across all states of South Sudan must protect hospitals, health centres and medical stores from looting, destruction, and other forms of violence. Healthcare is a basic human need that must never be[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Protecting children is everyone’s responsibility

Protecting children is a collective responsibility that must be taken seriously by parents, government institutions, schools, religious leaders, and the wider community. Every child deserves to grow up in a safe environment, free from violence, abuse, neglect, exploitation, and discrimination. Children are among the most vulnerable members of society, and[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Government must strengthen fight against drug abuse

State governments must strengthen efforts to combat drug abuse among young people, which poses a serious threat to public safety, community stability, and the future of the country. The increasing concern over drug use among young people calls for urgent and coordinated action. Substance abuse can contribute to violence, theft,[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Citizens’ faith should inspire peace, not violence during elections

As South Sudan prepares for the anticipated December 2026 general elections, citizens of all faiths have an important responsibility to promote peace, unity, and tolerance. Religious beliefs should bring people together, not become tools for political division, hatred, or violence. Faith occupies a significant place in the lives of many[Read More…]

NATION TALK: This nation must address trade barriers and secure the Juba–Nimule road

South Sudan must urgently address trade barriers and improve security along the Juba–Nimule Road to promote economic growth, protect traders, and reduce the cost of living for ordinary citizens. The Juba–Nimule Road is one of the country’s most important trade routes, connecting South Sudan to Uganda and other regional markets.[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Peace must begin from citizens, not others

Peace cannot be achieved by waiting for leaders, governments, or international partners to do everything for us. Every citizen has a responsibility to promote unity, resolve disputes peacefully, and protect the well-being of their community. In this country, lasting peace requires collective action. Communities must reject tribalism, revenge, hate speech,[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Government should focus on peaceful disarmament

South Sudan’s path toward lasting peace requires more than political agreements and security operations. It demands a sustained commitment to peaceful disarmament, community engagement, and the protection of civilian lives. The government must recognise that the widespread presence of small arms among civilians remains a serious challenge to public safety,[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Let every citizen have a chance to participate in politics

The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) has directed military personnel aspiring to contest the December 22, 2026, general elections to resign from active military service before entering the political race. The directive brings an important issue into public discussion: the need for individuals to respect professional boundaries and allow[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Parties should ensure peace prevails across the country

Political parties in South Sudan have a responsibility to promote peace, unity, and stability as the country prepares for its democratic future. Political competition should never become a source of violence, division, or fear among citizens. Political leaders must recognise that peace is essential for national development, economic recovery, and[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Civil Society and government must tackle intercommunal conflicts

Intercommunal conflicts remain a serious challenge to peace, security, and development in South Sudan. Across the country, disputes between communities over cattle, land, water, grazing areas, and other resources continue to threaten lives, displace families, and weaken relationships that have existed for generations. The Civil Society Coalition and the Caretaker[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Uganda’s independence day; a celebration shared with South Sudanese citizens

Uganda today marks its Independence Day, a significant national occasion for the Ugandan people and a moment that should also remind us of the strong ties between Uganda and South Sudan. We all understand that many South Sudanese citizens live, work, study, and conduct businesses in Uganda. Others are spread[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Mental health is not a shame; stop stigma and discrimination

This week, South Sudan joins the rest of the world in commemorating World Mental Health Day, an important occasion to raise awareness about mental health and remind communities that people experiencing mental health challenges deserve understanding, respect, and support rather than discrimination. Mental health is an essential part of human[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Political parties must embrace fair and transparent democracy

As South Sudan continues to strengthen its democratic institutions, political parties should promote fairness, transparency, accountability, and inclusion within their own structures. Internal democracy is essential because parties play a central role in shaping the country’s political future. Leadership elections, appointments, consultations, and decision-making should follow party constitutions and established[Read More…]

Op_Ed: A policy appeal for energy security, and affordable petroleum products

South Sudan stands at an important economic crossroads. As an oil-producing nation, the country should continue to examine how greater domestic value addition can translate its petroleum resources into tangible benefits for ordinary citizens, businesses, and the wider national economy. Developments surrounding major refinery projects in Africa, including the Dangote[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Government should strengthen service delivery alongside elections

South Sudan’s preparations for elections should not come at the expense of the basic services citizens depend on every day. As the country moves toward the next electoral process, political attention is understandably focused on preparations, institutions, and the participation of citizens. But government has responsibilities that go beyond elections.[Read More…]