A Symbolic Election in Juba
The South Sudan Scout Association elected a new executive board in Juba this week, reaffirming Minister of Information Michael Makuei Lueth as Board Chair and choosing Ladu Saeed as Commissioner General and Jacqueline Ago as his deputy, observers said (Eye Radio, Oct. 2022).
Minister Makuei’s Call for Unity
Addressing the gathering, Makuei urged the fresh leadership to shun tribal loyalties and bolster the government’s campaign for national cohesion, warning that “political tribalism” continues to undermine state-building efforts.
Support Pledged Across State Structures
He pledged logistical and policy support from both state and national authorities, describing Scouting as a critical partner in peace education and youth empowerment across the country.
First Female Deputy Breaks Barriers
Deputy Commissioner Jacqueline Ago, 24, becomes the association’s first woman in the role, a milestone celebrated by gender advocates who see her election as proof of expanding opportunities for young South Sudanese women.
Grassroots Agenda: From Yei to Lafon
Commissioner General Saeed announced an inaugural field mission to Yei River County, birth-place of South Sudanese Scouting, before extending programs to Lafon County where youth have been drawn into local violence.
He plans activities including farm projects and leadership camps designed to channel youthful energy toward community service rather than conflict.
Scouting’s Role Since Independence
Founded at independence in 2011 and formally admitted to the World Organization of the Scout Movement a year later, the South Sudan Scout Association now counts thousands of members and operates the Rejaf Scouts Farm outside Juba.
Analysts note that its emphasis on shared identity and volunteerism offers a home-grown complement to formal peace mechanisms embraced by the government and international partners.
Looking Forward
With government backing and youthful enthusiasm, the new leadership hopes Scouting can become a nationwide classroom for unity, equipping a generation to rise above ethnic fault lines and focus on rebuilding Africa’s youngest nation.