The European Union’s deputy ambassador to South Sudan on Tuesday welcomed the reopening of the Equator Broadcasting Corporation (EBC) and the launch of a Central Equatoria State newspaper, calling the move a boost to peace efforts and media development in the country.
Speaking at a ceremony attended by state officials and journalists, EU Deputy Head of Delegation Lothar Jaschke said the revival of the state-run broadcaster comes at a critical time as South Sudan struggles with political uncertainty and persistent conflict.
“It is a proud and historic moment,” Jaschke said, describing the broadcaster’s radio, television and print platforms as important tools for dialogue and reconciliation.
He said credible and inclusive media outlets could help reinforce the country’s fragile peace process by promoting messages of peace, forgiveness and national unity.
Jaschke also stressed the importance of ethical journalism, urging media practitioners to pursue investigative reporting while avoiding hate speech and inflammatory language. He referenced recent discussions with South Sudan’s information minister, who he said had pledged to respect press freedom as long as journalists operate professionally.
Strengthening media institutions, Jaschke added, could help foster social cohesion in a country emerging from years of civil war.
Central Equatoria State Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony praised the resilience of EBC staff and pledged government support to ensure the sustainability of the broadcaster and its radio service.
He said the outlet would operate independently under professional journalistic standards and provide balanced coverage of government and public concerns.
The governor said EBC would play a key role in civic education and cultural promotion as the country prepares for elections, adding that his administration was focused on expanding the broadcaster’s reach to counties and remote areas.
EBC Television is now available on South One decoders, while the Central Equatoria State Newspaper will be published twice a month, officials said.
The event was attended by state ministers, advisers, local government officials, European Union representatives and journalists. Speakers also recognized former Central Equatoria governors, including Gen. Clement Wani Konga, for their role in establishing the broadcaster.