Parliament Hosts National Population Day Commemoration

(JUBA) – South Sudan has marked World Population Day with a national event focusing on the role of young people in shaping the country’s future and building stronger families.

The commemoration held on Friday at the national Parliament Building, was organised by the Ministry of Finance and Planning through the National Bureau of Statistics, in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

Addressing the gathering, Minister of Finance and Planning Hon. Dr Marial Dongrin Ater reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to using the country’s demographic potential to create economic opportunities for the youth.

He noted that South Sudan’s young population represented both a challenge and an opportunity, depending on how well the nation invests in education, health and employment.

Dr Marial acknowledged the contribution of development partners, particularly UNFPA, for providing both technical and financial support to the Bureau of Statistics and the ministry. He said this collaboration was vital in helping the government understand population trends and plan policies that respond to demographic needs.

The event also saw the launch of the latest World Population Report, which provides data and analysis on population growth, reproductive health and socio-economic trends.

Leaders said the report would help shape strategies for sustainable development, with a focus on empowering young people to make informed family choices.

Senior officials attending included Deputy Speaker of Parliament Hon. Permena Awerial, UN Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary General Anita Kiki, Minister of General Education and Instruction Hon. Dr Kuyok Abol, Minister of Health Hon. Sara Cleto, Minister of Youth and Sports Hon. Dr Geng Akec, and Director General of the South Sudan Bureau of Statistics Hon. Augustino Ting Mayai.

The event was held under the theme: “Empowering young people to create the families they want in a fair and hopeful world”. Officials stressed that achieving this vision would require expanding access to education, healthcare and employment, particularly in rural areas.

According to UNFPA, empowering youth to plan their futures can have a direct impact on economic stability. For example, reducing unplanned pregnancies can allow more young women to complete school and increase their earning potential.