Minister of Information Ateny Wek Ateny speaks at his reception at Telecom House, Gumbo-Sherikat, on Saturday, December 6, 2025. Photo credit: Awan Moses/Eye Radio

South Sudan’s newly appointed Minister of Information, Communication, Technology and Postal Services, Ateny Wek Ateny, has outlined an ambitious vision for youth empowerment and media freedom during his official reception on Saturday.

Speaking before government officials, development partners and journalists, Ateny said nurturing young people’s creativity would be central to the country’s technological progress.

He described South Sudan’s youth as a source of national strength.

“To young people of South Sudan, your creativity and innovation are national assets,” he said.

“We will champion programs that support digital skills, technology incubation and creative industries. Through collaboration with universities, development partners and private sector players, we shall cultivate an environment that allows the youth to invent, explore and contribute to national development. The future of ICT belongs to them. We must give them a space to live.”

The minister pledged to promote initiatives that boost digital literacy, support tech incubators and expand opportunities in the creative sector.

Ateny also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to media freedom and the protection of journalists, noting that a vibrant democracy relies on an informed public and a safe operating environment for the press.

“Our democracy thrives when freedom of expression is upheld and when journalists are protected as partners in nation building,” he said.

“My ministry will continue to safeguard the rights of the media, promote responsible journalism and work with stakeholders to ensure a fair and enabling environment for all practitioners.”

However, he emphasized that media freedoms must operate within the legal framework. Ateny said he would personally follow up on any case in which a journalist is arrested to determine whether the detention is related to their professional work or a violation of the law.

“I’m not to contradict Honorable Michael Makuei,” he added, “but the journalists that deserve our protection are the journalists that operate according to what is prescribed in the law. A law violator… can be brought to book.”

The minister concluded by reaffirming his commitment to strengthening communication systems and ensuring a fair, modern and supportive media landscape across South Sudan.