By Suzan Peter Mabuong

In the heart of Africa, a young nation rises from the ashes of war, bearing the weight of both promise and pain. South Sudan, blessed with rich culture and abundant resources, is also home to a powerful asset too often overlooked, its youth. Defined as those aged between 18 and 35, young people in South Sudan make up more than 70% of the population. They are not only the future of this nation, but their present strength. Their ideas, energy, and hope for a better tomorrow are essential to shaping a peaceful and prosperous South Sudan.

Youthhood is a sacred bridge between childhood and adulthood. It is during this phase that individuals develop a sense of identity, purpose, and responsibility. In many parts of the world, young people have risen as agents of change, transforming societies with courage, innovation, and determination. From Barack Obama, who became the 44th President of the United States at just 47, to Ibrahim Traoré, the 35-year-old leader of Burkina Faso, young leaders are proving that age is no barrier to greatness when vision, courage, and character are present.

South Sudan is no different. Our youth are resilient. They are scholars, peacebuilders, artists, and entrepreneurs. Many of them have graduated from universities within South Sudan and across the globe. They bring back with them not only academic qualifications but a wealth of exposure, skills, and global perspectives. Mangok Mangok Mayen, a South Sudanese leader who lived in the United States for over two decades before returning home, says, “We cannot afford to ignore the potential of our youth. They are well-trained, globally aware, and deeply rooted in their culture. They are ready to serve this nation, but they need space and support to lead.”

Indeed, youth are more than just statistics, they are storytellers of struggle and resilience. Adeng Kuel Maluil, a young South Sudanese woman currently living in the United States, shares, “I dream of returning home one day to contribute to building a South Sudan where girls can lead without fear, where youth are not used in conflict but are seen as solution-makers. We have seen how much young people can do when they are trusted and supported.”

Still, the path to youth participation in leadership and governance is not without obstacles. Cultural norms, economic hardship, limited access to decision-making platforms, and lack of mentorship continue to hinder youth engagement. Mary Gune Body, an advocate for youth inclusion, explains, “Many of our young people face serious challenges, from poverty to lack of confidence. Even when they are willing to step up, the systems often push them aside. But we can change this. We need to increase awareness of our political systems, provide leadership training, and create environments where young people can safely express their views.”

South Sudan’s post-conflict setting offers a unique opportunity. This is a moment of rebuilding, reimagining, and healing. And young people must be at the center of this process. Wani Richard, a youth leader and cultural advocate, passionately states, “South Sudan is richly blessed with diverse and respectful cultural values that have shaped its youth into some of the most hardworking, respectful, and community-oriented individuals in the world. Despite the disruptions caused by conflict, our young people continue to demonstrate love for their fellow citizens, both within and beyond our borders.”

Wani continues, “With over 65% of South Sudanese youth graduating from universities locally and abroad, they are well-equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to contribute meaningfully to national development. Youth should be recognized and empowered as agents of peace and reconciliation. By involving them in leadership and decision-making processes, they can help drive social change through peace dialogues, cultural initiatives, music, sports, and social media campaigns. Our youth are not just future leaders; they are the face and strength of the nation.”

These words ring true in every corner of South Sudan. In villages, towns, and cities, the youth are already leading in many ways, organizing community clean-ups, hosting peace concerts, using social media to share positive messages, and participating in cultural events that unify rather than divide. They are not waiting for change; they are becoming the change.

Adut Garang Deng Nyang, a young woman with a powerful voice for justice, says, “I believe our generation has a calling to heal what was broken. We cannot be sidelined anymore. We have education, energy, and the heart. What we ask for is trust and opportunity.”

This call for trust is not just emotional, it is strategic. Countries that invest in their youth thrive. Look at Finland, where youth are deeply involved in political processes. Look at Rwanda, where young people have taken charge of innovation and governance after conflict. South Sudan can do the same. The key lies in intentional action, mentorship programs, inclusion in decision-making forums, civic education, and leadership development platforms.

Youth participation is not charity. It is a necessity. Socially, it strengthens community ties and reduces the risk of conflict. Economically, it boosts innovation and creates jobs. Politically, it fosters accountability and transparency. A country that empowers its youth secures its future.

In conclusion, South Sudan stands at a crossroads. We can continue to sideline our most energetic and talented citizens, or we can embrace them as partners in progress. The latter choice leads to healing, stability, and growth.

As Wani Richard puts it: “A country without empowered youth risks stagnation and vulnerability. It is therefore essential to involve young people in peacebuilding and nation-building efforts. I urge our national leaders to mentor the youth with accurate knowledge of our history and to promote gender equality across all leadership platforms.”

Let us not wait for tomorrow to recognize what is already within us today. The youth of South Sudan are not just ready to lead, they were born for such a time as this. Let us open the doors and walk this journey together.

Short biography:

Suzan Peter Mabuong is a weekly columnist with ‘The City Review’ on social impact. She is a Ph.D. candidate in Organizational Leadership at Grand Canyon University. Having lived in Canada and the United States for more than two decades before returning to South Sudan, Suzan brings a unique perspective that goes beyond the surface to explore the real stories shaping the nation. Suzan stands firm on the promises of God’s protection: “The Lord will keep you from all harm, He will watch over your life” (Psalm 121:7). Contact Suzan at: beyondtheheadlines.ssd@gmail.com