By Waure Eddy
In a step toward protecting the rights of girls and promoting education, Bazungua Payam under Western Equatoria State (WES) has officially signed a community-led declaration to end early marriages.
The event, held in Bazungua, was supported by AMREF Health Africa and funded by the United Nations Population Agency (UNPA), under the Universal Access to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights initiative.
The declaration ceremony drew a wide array of dignitaries, government officials, traditional leaders, community members and schools.
Taban Patrick, Project Manager of AMREF Health Africa’s Yambio branch, MREF’s role in supporting government efforts to deliver essential services to communities.
“We work with all relevant ministries and organs of government to ensure that what needs to be done moves ahead. With funding from UNPA, we are contributing to the improvement of sexual and reproductive health services for the people,” he added.
Victor Zakapu, Chairperson of the Bazungua Action Group under AMREF, expressed deep appreciation for the organization’s support.
“AMREF has empowered us through training, bicycles, and financial support to run our group and raise our voices against child marriage,” he said.
Kenneth, Director General of the State Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare, praised the collaboration between his ministry and AMREF.
“This declaration is a seed planted by the community of Bazungua. We will continue to monitor this program seriously and ensure it grows,” he affirmed.
Guest of Honor Benjamin Commanda, Director General of the State Ministry of Local Government and Law Enforcement, commended Bazungua Payam for taking a bold stand. “Ending early marriages is a serious and important decision.
Our girls should be in school, not in early marriages. Parents must be vigilant—those who support early marriages will be held accountable,” he warned.
The declaration aligns with South Sudan’s national goal to eliminate early marriages by 2030. Bazungua’s commitment sets a strong example for other communities across the country, reinforcing the message that education and empowerment must triumph over harmful traditions.
As the sun sets over Bazungua, the voices of its people rise in unity—declaring that every girl deserves a future free from early marriage, full of opportunity and dignity.
