More than 80 participants, including government officials, state lawmakers, security personnel, civil society representatives and journalists, on Friday completed a two-day workshop in Yambio aimed at raising awareness about South Sudan’s constitution-making process.
The training, held in Western Equatoria State, was organized by the Support Peace Initiative Development Organization (SPIDO) with funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Organizers said the event was designed to equip participants with knowledge of the constitution-making process, their roles in public consultations and how to engage communities in shaping the country’s permanent constitution.
“Many citizens are still unaware of the Act and their right to contribute to the constitution-making process,” said Morris John, SPIDO program officer. “We brought together more than 80 participants to create awareness. This process allows key stakeholders to share their views on what was not captured in the draft and forward it to the National Constitutional Review Commission.”
Joseph Taban Abel, director at the state Ministry of Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, said the training focused on dissemination, deliberation and validation of the constitution-making process.
“Our message to donors is that drafting a permanent constitution is critical, and they should support SPIDO and government efforts to make this possible,” Taban said.
Samuel John Aringa, acting chairperson of the Human Rights Commission in Western Equatoria, said the training would help pave the way for citizens to voice their concerns.
“Without a constitution, there can be no proper management of resources or good governance,” Aringa said. “This step gives people an opportunity to contribute to the future of South Sudan.”
Joseph Ndani, secretary-general of the Network of Civil Society Activists, called for continued engagement despite funding challenges.
“Civil society organizations will continue advocating for the public to participate so that the final constitution reflects their aspirations,” he said.
Yambio Mayor John Singira urged participants to act as ambassadors for the process.
“When people know the law, it helps maintain peace, unity and respect for the rule of law,” he said.
Organizers and participants agreed the training was essential for promoting public participation and pledged to share what they learned within their institutions and communities.