A feeder road in Gudele, branching off the Pity Oil petroleum station, has been proposed to be named in honour of the late journalist Emmanuel Joseph Akile. Courtesy photo.

The First Deputy Speaker of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, Ambrose Lomin Pitia, has announced plans to name a feeder road in Gudele, Juba, after the late journalist Emmanuel Joseph Akile, in recognition of his lasting contribution to journalism in South Sudan.

The proposed road, to be named Emmanuel Joseph Akile Road, branches off from the Pity Oil petroleum station and leads to Akile’s former residence in Gudele.

The lawmaker said the road holds significance as it was along this route that Akile was picked up every morning and driven to Eye Radio, where he hosted his popular program.

The announcement was made on Saturday while the MP was addressing mourners during Akile’s funeral prayer in Juba. He said he had already informed the Mayor of Juba City and relevant state authorities, adding that the proposal has received their support.

“This road carries the daily footsteps of Emmanuel Joseph Akile’s dedication to his work and service to the public,” the MP said, noting that naming it after the late journalist would preserve his legacy of discipline, passion, and commitment to public-interest journalism.

Emmanuel Joseph Akile, a renowned broadcast journalist and host of Eye Radio’s flagship program, died on December 30, 2025, after a short illness.

His death shocked the media fraternity and the wider public, triggering an outpouring of tributes from government officials, civil society leaders, fellow journalists, and listeners across South Sudan.

Akile was widely respected for his professionalism, integrity, and courage. Colleagues described him as a journalist who consistently amplified the voices of ordinary citizens while holding leaders accountable through ethical and balanced reporting.

The proposed road naming is seen as a symbolic recognition of Akile’s legacy and the important role journalists play in promoting public dialogue and democracy in South Sudan.

If approved through the required administrative process, Emmanuel Joseph Akile Road would stand as a lasting tribute to one of the country’s most respected media figures.