OpEd

NATION TALK: Before the ballots, build the roads: South Sudan’s election connectivity test

As the country prepares for the December 2026 general elections, attention is increasingly turning to political campaigns, rallies, voter registration, and candidate selection. But beneath these political activities lies a basic issue that could determine how effectively candidates and communities connect. For many people in rural areas, reaching a county[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Peace parties should ensure inclusive dialogue

South Sudan needs renewed commitment to inclusive dialogue as political disagreements, economic difficulties, and public concerns continue to shape the country’s future. Dialogue should not be viewed simply as a political slogan but as an important avenue for addressing differences peacefully and finding common ground. An inclusive national conversation should[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Government must protect properties and lives of civilians

As South Sudan navigates the transition period of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), public anxiety regarding national security and political stability is reaching a critical point. Across towns and communities, citizens are voicing legitimate fears that the dissolution of the Revitalised Transitional[Read More…]

Op-Ed: How South Sudan is defined by its resilience, not problems

Writer: Catherine Lunkuse – lunkusecathy@gmail.com Before I came to South Sudan, I had heard many stories about the country. I heard about conflict. I heard about poverty, displacement, insecurity, political uncertainty, and economic hardship. I heard about a young nation struggling to find its footing after years of turmoil. From[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Government should strengthen police to reduce crime in towns

South Sudan continues to face serious security challenges that affect the lives, livelihoods, and future of its citizens. From violent crimes in urban areas to community conflicts in rural regions, insecurity remains one of the biggest obstacles to peace and development. To address this situation, the government must prioritise strengthening[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Let the prayer for peace guide South Sudan toward the ballot

Yesterday, South Sudan joined a national prayer for peace, bringing citizens and leaders together in a shared appeal for stability, unity, and a better future. As the country prepares for general elections scheduled for December 22, 2026, the message of such a prayer should extend beyond places of worship. It[Read More…]

NATION TALK: What comes to your mind when you steal from the church?

This question deserves serious reflection, especially amid growing concerns about theft in some churches. A church is not simply a building. For millions of believers, it is a place of worship, prayer, fellowship, and hope. People gather there to seek God, support one another, and give what they can to[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Strengthen humanitarian response as drought continues to threaten communities

South Sudan needs a stronger humanitarian response as drought continues to threaten communities already facing food insecurity and limited access to basic services. The government must therefore strengthen the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management to ensure it can respond quickly when emergencies occur. Drought should not be treated[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Inclusive dialogue remains crucial for South Sudan

South Sudan’s journey toward lasting peace and stability requires more than political agreements; it requires sustained and inclusive dialogue among the country’s diverse communities, political actors, civil society, women, youth, faith leaders, and other stakeholders. Dialogue provides an opportunity for differences to be addressed through discussion rather than confrontation. In[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Ensure security alongside election preparations

The commencement of voter education and registration is a significant milestone in South Sudan’s journey toward democratic governance. It offers citizens the opportunity to participate in shaping the country’s future through credible and peaceful elections. However, the success of this important process depends largely on one critical factor: security. The[Read More…]

Op-Ed: Empowering the black community: an African renaissance for global economic participation

The time has come for a new African Renaissance, one driven not only by political independence but also by economic empowerment, education, innovation, technology, ownership, and participation in the global marketplace. For generations, African societies have often remained consumers of products, technologies, and financial systems developed elsewhere. Today, our challenge[Read More…]

NATION TALK: We must take up agriculture with government support

Our nation has been blessed with fertile land, abundant water, and a favourable climate. These natural resources give us a great opportunity to feed ourselves and build a stronger economy. However, despite this potential, many families still struggle with food shortages and poverty. It is time for all South Sudanese[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Government should strengthen efforts to normalise fuel prices

Fuel is the lifeblood of any economy. It powers transportation, agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and nearly every aspect of daily life. In South Sudan, where businesses and households already face significant economic challenges, unstable and high fuel prices continue to increase the cost of living and slow economic growth. Strengthening efforts[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Skills training can give youth a future

The training of 83 young people in plumbing and tailoring by the DMI Sisters in collaboration with the Strome Foundation is an initiative that deserves attention and encouragement. The program has equipped 53 women and 30 men with practical skills that can help them pursue livelihoods, support their families, and[Read More…]

EDITORIAL: Government should intensify protection of civilians in conflict-affected areas

The protection of civilians is one of the fundamental responsibilities of any government. In South Sudan, where sporadic violence continues to affect some parts of the country, ensuring the safety and security of innocent citizens must remain a national priority. Communities caught in conflict often bear the greatest burden, losing[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Government should strengthen preparedness for El Niño and climate change

South Sudan is facing increasing climate-related challenges that require stronger preparedness, planning, and coordinated action from the government and other stakeholders. The country remains highly vulnerable to floods, droughts, extreme rainfall, and other climate hazards that continue to threaten communities, livelihoods, and development. Climate change is no longer a distant[Read More…]

OPINION: There is a need for political coexistence, inclusion and an open space in South Sudan

South Sudan stands at an important political crossroads. As the country prepares for the next phase of its political transition and the anticipated national electoral process, the quality of the political environment will be as important as the conduct of the elections themselves. A democratic society cannot be built through[Read More…]

NATION TALK: Education must not become a casualty of the election calendar

The cabinet’s endorsement of an adjustment to the national education calendar to allow candidates sitting for the national primary and secondary school examinations to complete them in November, ahead of the December 2026 general elections, deserves careful consideration and public support. For thousands of South Sudanese learners, national examinations are[Read More…]