Juba, South Sudan, June 05, 2021 – A civil society activist has lashed out at youths in the country for threatening and attacking Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in desperate and forceful attempts to secure jobs.
Wani Michael, the Executive Director of Okay Africa Foundation expressed dismay at recent attacks on aid workers and organizations in different states within the country.
Wani said the youths should table their concerns before the government instead of attacking organizations delivering much-needed support to the vulnerable groups in some hard-to-reach areas around the country.
The Executive Director also voiced disappointment on how youths in the country have turned against each other, especially in scenarios where they identify by different States and administrative areas.
“Am really ashamed as a youth to hear that we’ve turned against each other because of NGOs jobs instead of asking our government the hardest questions; where are the jobs? Where’s the youth fund to empower us to economically sustain ourselves?” he tweeted.
“Where’s the Peace and security to boost economic and private sector development in the country to create and accelerate opportunities for us?” the activist further questioned.
Wani said the youths have taken a wrong path based on misguided opinions and thoughts, saying it was never the mandate of NGOs to provide jobs for the youths.
“When did NGOs become your government to provide you with job opportunities?” he asked. “We need to change our mindset as young people and address the real problem facing our Country. If you chase all the NGOs away from your community, who will provide services to your people? Please think beyond yourself,” the activist added.
Wani’s remarks came days after a group of youths in the Monyomiji community in Torit of Eastern Equatoria State attacked the office of the Red Cross, forcing the organization to close.
In a statement extended to Nyamilepedia, the youths denied the reports implicating them in any violent act urging the Red Cross to withdraw a statement portraying them as perpetrators of violence.
