Yei Women Leader Backs Ban on Minors in Discos and Betting Centres

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – The Chairlady of the Yei River County Women’s Association, Mama Alice Siyama, has welcomed the recent order by the County Commissioner banning children from attending night discos and sports betting centres across Yei Town and its rural payams.

The directive, issued on 2 July, aims to protect children from harmful practices, including drug abuse, sexual exploitation and other activities that may negatively affect their education and wellbeing.

Speaking to Access Radio on Tuesday, Siyama described the order as a positive step towards safeguarding children but stressed that its success will depend on the active involvement of parents, local chiefs and security agencies in enforcing the directive.

She noted that despite the ban, many children continue to frequent nightclubs, participate in overnight funeral prayers and gather at sports betting facilities.

“I am very happy with the order issued by the commissioner. As parents, we need to monitor and take care of these children. They should not be allowed to attend night discos, overnight funeral prayers and sports betting facilities. If we do not do that, especially as women and parents, we shall be the ones to suffer,” Siyama said.

The women’s leader also called on the government to improve access to education by establishing more schools to accommodate growing numbers of learners. She further urged authorities to ensure regular payment of teachers, saying educators play a vital role in protecting children and keeping them in school.

Community leaders and child protection advocates have increasingly raised concerns over the growing exposure of minors to nightlife activities and gambling, warning that such environments can contribute to school dropouts and other social challenges.

The commissioner’s order is expected to strengthen efforts to promote child welfare and encourage school attendance across Yei River County.