A unique and innovative learning opportunity was organized on valentine’s day for the young people to tap wisdom from senior leaders of South Sudan. The spirit of love and empowerment was in the air as Right Honorable Speaker Nunu Kumba and Interior Minister Honorable Angelina Ateny celebrated Valentine’s Day, engaging in a dialogue with young people. The event aimed to empower young people to promote healthy relationships and marriages.

During the gathering, Rt. Hon. Jemma Nunu Kumba emphasized the importance of compromise in relationships and marriages, urging young people to seek comprehensive love that encompasses not only physical attraction but also mutual well-being and future success.

Meanwhile, Hon. Angelina Ateny South Sudan Minister of Interior emphasized the significance of love beyond personal relationships, stressing the need to love and sacrifice for the development and prosperity of the country.

We love you so much young people, you should also love yourselves and this Country – South Sudan” says Hon. Angelina Teny. She expressed the responsibility of leaders to engage with the young people and impart valuable lessons to them.

The senior government officials commended the UNFPA South Sudan for providing platforms to engage and empower young people, highlighting the opportunities available for youth to build their future and realize their dreams.

Dr. Demola Olajide, the Representative of UNFPA to South Sudan highlighted the importance of intergenerational dialogue on “Love that Empowers,” aiming to empower young people to build functional and beneficial relationships that enable them to contribute to the development of the country.

In an afternoon session “Let Love Lead” characterized by fun, laughers and learnings, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Deborah Akech emphasized the need for partnership to build the capacity of men to support and empower women.

Women are good managers when empowered, entrusted with resources and positions in decision making in public offices. They balance the well-being of their families and developmental projects” A good man encourages a lady to complete her education and creates an enabling environment for her to work” Hon. Akech shares her personal experience.

Hon. Yar Telar Deng, a Member of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, emphasized the importance of empowering each other, creating a peaceful environment for women and girls, and building healthy relationships. “Healthy marriages mostly start with respectful courtships where common goals and values are discussed for the benefit of the intending couples” Hon Yar said.

The dialogue brought together a diverse group of participants, including the speaker of the national assembly, interior minister, young parliamentarians, and various young people including people with disabilities. They shared experiences and insights on fostering healthy marriages and relationships, contributing to the overall message of love and empowerment.

The event served as a platform for leaders to engage with young people, imparting wisdom and encouragement to build healthy relationships and contribute to the development of the country.