Yei Civil Society Welcomes Ban on Minors in Nightclubs

(YEI RIVER COUNTY)– The Yei Civil Society Forum has welcomed a new order issued by the Yei River County Commissioner banning children and teenagers from attending night discos and participating in sports betting activities.

The order, issued on Thursday, aims to protect school-going children from dropping out of school, reduce gang-related activities, and curb the abuse of alcohol, drugs, and other harmful substances among young people.

County authorities said the measure is also intended to address criminal activities and immoral behaviour linked to entertainment venues frequented by minors.

Speaking to Access Radio on Friday, the Head of the Yei Civil Society Forum, Modi Arkangelo, described the directive as a positive step towards safeguarding children and improving educational outcomes in the county.

He said the order has the potential to protect children from harmful practices that negatively affect their education and overall wellbeing.

However, Arkangelo stressed that the success of the directive will depend on its effective implementation, urging county authorities and security agencies to ensure strict enforcement.

“The order is good, but the question is how it will be implemented. Will nightclub owners be informed and required not to admit children? How will the government sustain the implementation of this local order? Will security personnel be deployed to prevent children from entering these establishments?” he questioned.

Arkangelo further noted that law enforcement agencies must play a more active role in ensuring compliance with the directive.

He said civil society organisations would intensify public awareness campaigns to educate communities on the dangers facing teenagers and the importance of keeping children in school.

The civil society leader also called on parents, teachers, and other stakeholders to work together to protect children from harmful influences that could lead to school dropout.

“Parents should closely monitor their children and ensure they attend classes regularly. Teachers should also remain vigilant and check whether learners are under the influence of alcohol while at school. Children should be kept engaged through schoolwork, and teachers should collaborate with parents to prevent school dropout,” Arkangelo said.

The new county order comes amid growing concerns over the increasing involvement of young people in nightlife activities, gambling, substance abuse, and other practices that stakeholders say threaten their education and future prospects.