Addressing a youth leadership forum in Yambio over the weekend, Taban expressed concern over the growing trend of youth involvement in violence driven by political agendas

By Emmanuel Mandella

Yambio County, Western Equatoria State- The Chairperson of the National Youth Union, Paride Taban, has issued a strong appeal to the youth of Western Equatoria State (WES) to reject politically motivated violence and resist manipulation by self-serving politicians.

His message comes against the backdrop of ongoing insecurity in parts of the state, particularly in counties such as Tombura, Nagero, Mundri East, and Ezo, which have experienced recurring waves of violence since 2021. These tensions are often linked to political rivalries and the recruitment of youth into armed militias. While community and faith-based groups have launched reconciliation efforts, pockets of instability continue to threaten peace in the region.

Addressing a youth leadership forum in Yambio over the weekend, Taban expressed concern over the growing trend of youth involvement in violence driven by political agendas.

“Some of you are following the wrong politicians—people who only use you to benefit themselves while destroying the fabric of the state,” Taban warned. “You are the backbone of this nation. You were not created to be used as tools of destruction, but as builders and protectors of your communities.”

He called on the youth to channel their energy into positive pursuits such as agriculture, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Recalling the state’s historical reputation, he said, “Western Equatoria was once known for its peace and beauty. It was the food basket of South Sudan. Let’s return it to that green and flourishing identity.”

Taban also criticized the widespread addiction to social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and WhatsApp, arguing that young people are wasting precious time and resources online without pursuing meaningful opportunities.

“You’re spending all your data bundles on entertainment, yet doing nothing useful,” he said. “Why not use that same internet to apply for scholarships, take online courses, or explore business ideas that could uplift your life and your community?”

His remarks were echoed by Western Equatoria State Youth Chairperson, Silvesto Ruati, who described the message as both timely and necessary.

“It’s true—many of our young people are being misled by politicians who see them only as instruments of violence,” Ruati said. “We must reclaim our identity as agents of peace. Let’s focus on agriculture, skills training, and innovation. That’s the only way we will transform our state.”

Ruati revealed that the State Youth Union plans to roll out a series of community outreach programs aimed at reorienting youth attitudes and linking them to scholarships and other developmental opportunities.

Also speaking at the event, State Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sports, Paulino David Simbi, praised the initiative and emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between national and state youth structures.

“Our youth are our greatest resource, but they are also the most vulnerable to political manipulation,” Simbi said. “As a government, we are committed to empowering them through training, sports, and entrepreneurship—but the youth must also take responsibility for safeguarding peace.”

Simbi announced plans by his ministry to launch a Youth for Peace and Production campaign aimed at promoting agriculture, vocational training, and creative industries among young people in Western Equatoria State.

As the state continues to grapple with the consequences of political fragmentation and youth radicalization, leaders are calling for a new narrative—one where young people become the drivers of peace, not pawns of conflict.