By Samuel Yuan

The Duk County Youth Association (DCYA) officially inaugurated its new leadership on Saturday in a colorful and well-attended ceremony at APT Hall in Sharikhat, Juba.

Mamer Makuei Mamer was sworn in as the new Chairman of the Association, taking over from outgoing Chairman Aleer Aleer, who formally handed over leadership during the event. In his farewell address, Aleer Aleer encouraged Mamer to continue from where he left off and to focus on uniting the people of Duk County with their neighboring communities. He praised the spirit of peaceful transition and urged the new leadership to uphold the values of unity, development, and service.

The inauguration attracted hundreds of community members, youth representatives, and high-ranking government officials, all of whom expressed appreciation for the democratic process shown by the youth associations.

The Guest of Honour, Hon. Thiik Thiik Mayardit, Deputy Mayor of Juba City Council, commended the peaceful leadership transition and encouraged the newly elected chairmen of Duk County, Twic East, and Bor Community youth associations to work together in unity to build bridges among their people. “Your collaboration as youth leaders will shape the future of our communities,” he said.

Hon. James Alic Garang, former Governor of the Bank of South Sudan (BoSS), applauded the three youth associations for practicing democracy and setting a strong example of responsible civic leadership. “The people of South Sudan have seen what democracy looks like through you. Let this be a model for others to follow,” he remarked.

Also present was Hon. Eng. John Khot, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Roads and Bridges, who expressed his confidence in the new youth leadership, highlighting the importance of youth involvement in national development. He described the event as ‘a sign of hope for the future of Jonglei youth.’

Hon. Simon Akuei Deng, Commissioner-General of the National Revenue Authority, praised the young leaders for organizing a dignified and peaceful inauguration, emphasizing the role of youth in promoting peace and economic growth.

Hon. Atong Kuol Manyang, Minister of Trade and Industry, encouraged the new leadership to focus on unity, innovation, and capacity building among the youth. She highlighted the need for inclusive development, especially in rural communities.

Apart from Mamer Makuei Mamer, the event was attended by other recently elected youth leaders, including Deng Junior, Chairman of Twic East Youth Association (TEYA), and Elijah Manyok Jok, newly elected Chairman of Bor Community Youth Association. Their presence symbolized a growing commitment to inter-county collaboration and unity.

The event concluded with cultural dances, inspiring speeches, and a strong message of youth empowerment, peace, and regional cooperation. The ceremony marked a new beginning for the Duk County Youth Association, with hopes high for a vibrant, united, and forward-looking leadership.