Capitalize on the youth potential, WES Governor told
By Emmanuel Mandella
A group of youth leaders from Western and Central Equatoria States have appealed to the newly appointed Governor of Western Equatoria State James Al-Taib Berapai to focus on unlocking the youth potential through empowerment programs to enhance peace and unity.
The leaders made the call during a meeting with the governor on Monday in an effort to set tone for a fresh partnership with the government.
The delegation, led by Mr. Silvestor Ruati, Chairperson of the Western Equatoria Youths Union, Mr. Charles Ladu, Chairperson of the Central Equatoria State Youth Union, and Mr. Taban Paride, President of the South Sudan National Youth Union, delivered a unified message to the governor.
They said youth inclusion must become a priority if Western Equatoria is to achieve peace, stability, and economic growth.
In their joint statement, the leaders urged the governor to work with the youth and ensure that their voices are reflected in state governance and peace building processes.
The team specifically called for the implementation of the 2% youth representation clause in the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), ensuring that young people are appointed to influential government positions.
They also added that, creation of vocational training centers to equip youth with practical skills, paving the way for self-reliance and reducing dependency on government jobs, and greater investment in teachers and education, recognizing that youth empowerment must start with a strong foundation in schools and universities.
“Our state cannot move forward without its young people. We are the majority, and our future depends on how we are prepared and engaged today,” one of the youth leaders remarked.
In his response, the governor Al-Taib expressed deep appreciation for the delegation’s unity and vision.
He described the meeting as “a landmark in bridging the gap between government and youth leadership.”
“The unity you have shown as youth leaders from different regions is commendable, I am committed to partnering with you to empower the young people of Western Equatoria and make sure their voices are not only heard but acted upon,” he said.
The governor further pledged to create platforms for regular consultations with youth unions and civil society groups, noting that youth inclusion is a driver of stability and sustainable peace in the state.
However, with the majority of the population under 30s, engaging youth in productive sectors like farming, trade, and innovation could unlock Western Equatoria’s economic potential. Empowered youth contribute to food security, local industries, and tax revenues.
Implementing the 2% youth quota from the R-ARCSS sends a powerful message that young people are not just spectators in politics but equal partners in decision-making.
The meeting also underscores a rare moment of unity across states with leaders from Western Equatoria, Central Equatoria, and the national youth union presenting a joint front.
Observers say this collaboration could strengthen regional integration and push national leaders to prioritize youth issues across South Sudan.
For ordinary young people in Western Equatoria, many of whom struggle with unemployment and lack of opportunities, the governor’s pledge provides hope, if implemented, the proposals could open doors for thousands of youth to gain employment, start businesses, and contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.
