Candidates seeking to lead the Central Equatoria State Youth Union pledged to tackle unemployment, child marriage and drug abuse as delegates gathered in Juba on Monday for a convention to elect new leadership.
The convention, held at Pyramid Continental Hotel, brought together youth representatives from Central Equatoria’s six counties — Juba, Yei River, Kajo-Keji, Morobo, Lainya and Terekeka — as well as the administrative areas of Mangalla and Nduruba.
Delegates are expected to elect a new chairperson on Wednesday to lead the youth union for a four-year term ending in 2030.
Among the contenders is Aggrey Duku Arkangelo, who said young people across the state face growing social and economic challenges that require stronger representation and advocacy.
“The challenge is facing young people in the country,” Arkangelo told Radio Tamazuj in an interview on Sunday. “When a youth is crying in silence, it is a reflection that there must be something to be done.”
He said unemployment and limited access to finance continue to constrain many young people, particularly those seeking to start businesses or expand agricultural activities.
Arkangelo said the youth union should serve as a bridge between young entrepreneurs and financial institutions to improve access to loans and markets.
He also cited rising drug abuse among unemployed youth living on the streets and pledged to advocate for programmes aimed at supporting vulnerable young people.
Addressing social issues, Arkangelo called for stronger efforts to combat child marriage and keep girls in school.
“Girl-child marriage is very rampant,” he said, adding that communities should be encouraged to prioritize education and discourage early marriages.
His manifesto focuses on peacebuilding, security and development, with an emphasis on increasing youth participation in decision-making and expanding economic opportunities.
South Sudan has one of Africa’s youngest populations, and youth groups have frequently raised concerns over unemployment, limited economic opportunities and inadequate representation in public affairs.
The election comes as youth organisations continue to push for a greater role in governance and development initiatives across the country.
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