Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro likened the end of a year to the loss of a beloved, emphasizing the emotional and reflective transition it brings, and advised on a new approach to the new year

By Emmanuel Mandella

Reflecting on the year 2024 and the transition to 2025, Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio (CDTY) has urged South Sudanese citizens to embrace time as a divine gift and an equalizer. Speaking to the media on the eve of the new year, the bishop delivered a profound message about the value of time and its potential to transform lives and nations when used wisely.

Hiiboro likened the end of a year to the loss of a beloved, emphasizing the emotional and reflective transition it brings.

“2024 is leaving us like a loved one going away, and as it departs, we must prepare ourselves for a new state and a new beginning in 2025,” he said.

The bishop’s message focused on universality of time, calling it the “most equally distributed resource” given to humanity.

“Time is common to everyone; rich or poor, tall or short, nations big or small. South Sudan has the same 24 hours as Uganda, the United States, or Kenya. The difference lies in how we use it,” he explained.

In a call to develop a new culture of time management, Bishop Hiiboro challenged South Sudanese to abandon the cultural mindset of “South Sudanese time” and embrace a disciplined approach to time management. He stressed that the nation’s aspirations, dreams, and progress are deeply tied to how its citizens value and use their time.

“It pains me when we dismiss punctuality and efficiency by saying, ‘It’s South Sudanese time.’ This attitude must change. If we want to see a prosperous South Sudan in 2025, we must begin by using our time purposefully,” he implored.

Calling for self-reflection and purpose as the country steps into 2025, the bishop urged individuals to reflect on their personal identity, purpose, and the opportunities time presents.

“You must recognize yourself and your intentions. God has given us time as a blessing, a commodity to be used wisely. It is at our disposal to create stories of progress and success,” he said.

The bishop highlighted the need for a collective effort in South Sudan to redefine the use of time at all levels individual, community, and national.

“Let us make 2025 a year where every second counts. If we all commit to using time well, our country can achieve great strides, and we will celebrate our successes together,” he added.

The bishop underscored the urgency of leveraging time as a critical resource for development, unity, and prosperity.

“The way we use this shared resource (time) will determine our well-being, our future, and the legacy we leave behind,” he concluded.

As 2025 begins, Bishop Hiiboro’s words resonate as both a challenge and an inspiration for South Sudanese citizens: to cherish time, use it wisely, and transform their lives and nation in the process.