By: Ginaba Lino
South Sudan has celebrated its first official Labour Day since the Country gained its independence in July 2011 with a renewed call from the Vice President of the service cluster for collective commitment to building a labour system that is inclusive and protective for the people of South Sudan.
Speaking during the Labour Day celebration organized at Juba National Stadium under the theme: “Empowering Workers, Developing South Sudan,” Hussein Abdel-Bagi Akol said labourers in every sector remain the backbone of our national development.
“As a young nation, we are in the process of building and rebuilding our institutions, our economy, and our social fabric. Our workforce comprises civil servants, farmers, teachers, health care workers, security personnel, entrepreneurs, and labourers in every sector, and remains the backbone of our national development.”
Akol stated that, as the nation celebrates International Labour Day, it should be a moment to affirm everyone’s shared commitment to fairness, equity, and respect in all workplaces.
“It is a day dedicated to recognizing the dignity of labour, the rights of workers, and the invaluable contribution they make to the growth and prosperity of nations. This day reminds us that behind every milestone of progress lies the efforts, sacrifice, and resilience of hardworking men and women.
He emphasized that Labour Day is not only a celebration, but also a call to action to strengthen systems that protect workers, promote opportunity, and ensure that no one is left behind.
The vice president adds that, despite the challenges, the people of South Sudan continue to demonstrate resilience, determination, and hope, citing their daily efforts under difficult circumstances, laying the foundation for a stronger and more stable future.
He honored labourers’ courage and reaffirmed the government’s responsibility to support, empower, and protect them.
“The Productivity and protection of workers must be hand in hand. As a productive nation, it is one where workers are motivated, fairly treated, and provided with a safe and conducive working environment.”
“The Government of South Sudan recognizes that sustainable economic growth cannot be achieved without investing in our human capital,” he stated.
Added that there is a need to strengthen labour laws, ensuring compliance with international standards, promoting occupational safety, and safeguarding workers’ rights.
“When workers are protected, valued, and empowered, productivity naturally increases, and the nation prospers.” He emphasized.
He called for supporting youth with equipped relevant skills, support small and medium enterprises in across South Sudan.
“We must equip our youth with relevant skills, support small and medium enterprises, and encourage innovation that drives economic diversification. By doing so, we not only create jobs, but also foster self-reliance, stability, and long-term national growth.”
He echoes Gov’t commitment, saying they remain steadfast in their dedication to strengthening institutions, improving working conditions, and expanding opportunities for all citizens.