Author, Sito Lotulo Inyasio Longera, professional public administrator - Courtesy

As a South Sudanese citizen and a member of the Tennet community, one of the country’s smaller ethnic groups, I have often reflected on the place of minority communities in our nation. More than a decade after independence, I believe South Sudan has made important strides in nation-building, but significant challenges remain regarding the inclusion, representation, and development of smaller communities.

South Sudan is home to more than sixty ethnic groups, each with its own history, culture, and contribution to the country’s development. Yet, in my view, political power, development projects, and public services continue to be concentrated in areas associated with larger and more politically influential communities. While this may not be an intentional policy of exclusion, the outcome is that many minority communities feel left behind.

In conversations with people from communities such as the Tennet, Jie, Anuak, Lango, Lokoya, Keliko, Bongo, Balanda, and others, a common concern often emerges: many believe their communities are not adequately represented in county, state, and national institutions. They feel that their voices are rarely heard when major decisions are being made about governance, development, and administrative boundaries.

From my observation, representation is not only about appointing individuals to government positions. True representation should also be reflected in the distribution of public services and development opportunities. In many minority areas, roads remain poor or non-existent, healthcare services are limited, schools are under-resourced, and access to clean water remains a challenge. These realities contribute to a perception that some communities are receiving less attention than others.

The situation of the Jie community is one example that deserves reflection. Discussions concerning the administrative status of the Jie have generated debate between authorities in Eastern Equatoria State and the Greater Pibor Administrative Area. While different stakeholders may have legitimate historical and administrative arguments, I believe an equally important question should be asked: what services have governments delivered to the people living in those areas?

In my opinion, any government that claims authority over a territory should also demonstrate its commitment through development. Communities should be able to point to functioning schools, health facilities, roads, water projects, and other public services. Without such investments, disputes over territory risk becoming disconnected from the everyday needs of the people concerned.

I hold similar concerns regarding the discussions that surrounded the Lopa-Lafon County dispute. Public attention often focused on the Pari and Lopit communities, which are undoubtedly important stakeholders. However, as a member of the Tennet community, I felt that our historical presence and interests in the area did not receive the same level of attention.

Historical records and local realities show that the Tennet people have long been part of the social and cultural landscape of the area. Yet, many members of my community felt that discussions about the future of the county were framed primarily around larger groups. Whether that perception is fully accurate or not, it reflects a broader concern among many minority communities: that their interests are too often considered secondary.

I believe that administrative disputes in South Sudan should never be resolved solely on the basis of population size or political influence. Every community with historical, cultural, and territorial ties to an area should be consulted and represented in decisions affecting that area. Inclusion should not be determined by numbers alone. The rights of citizens do not increase or decrease according to the size of their ethnic group.

My concern is not limited to the Tennet community. Across South Sudan, many smaller groups face similar challenges. They often struggle to attract government investment, secure adequate representation, or have their perspectives recognized during political negotiations. This creates frustration and, in some cases, weakens confidence in public institutions.

I believe that South Sudan’s greatest strength lies in its diversity. Our many communities should not compete for recognition; rather, they should be recognized as equal partners in building the nation. The country’s future depends on creating institutions that are inclusive, fair, and responsive to all citizens.

For this reason, I believe that government appointments should reflect the country’s diversity, development projects should reach neglected areas, and all communities should be meaningfully involved in decisions affecting their land and governance. Such measures would not only promote fairness but also strengthen national unity and social cohesion.

As South Sudan continues its journey toward peace and development, I hope that policymakers, community leaders, and citizens will pay greater attention to the concerns of minority communities. My belief is simple: every South Sudanese community, regardless of its population size, deserves equal respect, equal opportunity, and an equal voice in shaping the future of our country.

A united South Sudan will not be built by the inclusion of only the largest communities. It will be built when every citizen and every community feels seen, heard, and valued as an integral part of the nation.

Sito Lotulo Inyasio Longera is a professional public administrator who holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Business Management, with a concentration in Public Administration, from Southern New Hampshire University. He also earned a Diploma in Social Work from Regis University and can be reached at sitoloin@gmail.com.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author, Sito Lotulo Inyasio Longera, and do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of Eye Radio.