South Sudan joined the rest of the world in commemorating World Population Day on Thursday, under the theme “Unleashing the power of gender equality, youth, and peace: Uplifting the voices of young people to create a nation for all ages.”
During the event, young people raised their grievances, including exemption from taxes, equal opportunities and representation in governments, and promotion of girl child education.
The event was celebrated in Juba with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
Linda, a young entrepreneur, urges the government to exempt small businesses operated by youth.
“We need a policy that can favour the young people. Some of the things you see us wearing are being done by young people but the system and policy towards young people restrict us,” she expressed.
Linda further added that, “We need the government to exempt the businesses of young people from taxes. You cannot exempt big companies from taxes and charge the small businesses.”
Mary, another participant, called for the implementation of youth, peace and security strategy.
“I would like the government to implement the youth, Peace and security strategy policy because I do believe where there is peace and we have security we will be able to achieve our potential for national growth and development,” she highlighted.
These are the concerns from some women, girls, and other marginalised people raising their concerns and urging the government and stakeholders to introduce laws and policies that will enable them to exert their rights to make meaningful choices.
World Population Day is celebrated annually to raise awareness about population issues and their impact on development.
This year’s theme highlights the importance of gender equality, youth empowerment, and peace in creating a nation for all
UNFPA brings its data, experience, and stories to support women and girls worldwide, and World Population Day allows us to highlight the need to advance gender equality to help realize the dreams of all 8 billion of us on our planet.