By Racheal Gitonga
In the heart of South Sudan, where the mighty Nile whispers stories of generations past, a new chapter is being written, not with the ink of conflict, but with the pens of purpose, innovation, and youthful determination.
The recent words of the Jonglei State Governor, calling upon the youth to embrace innovative skills, are not just a political statement. They are a divine trumpet sounding across the land, awakening the sleeping giants within our young people. It is a call echoing from heaven itself.
This is a new day, a season of building, inventing, and creating. As it is written, “Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43:19). The Lord is birthing something powerful among the youth of Jonglei, a spirit of innovation, creativity, and transformation.
Our youth, your talent is your gifting. God doesn’t expect everyone to be the same, but He has placed unique gifts in each of us. Whether you’re skilled with your hands, sharp in business, passionate about design, or curious about technology, all these are tools in the Kingdom of God. As the Lord reminds us in His Word, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others…” (1 Peter 4:10).
Innovation is not limited to big cities or developed countries. It starts right where you are — in the fields, the markets, the classrooms, and even under the mango tree where ideas are born. Consider David, who was not trained in the courts of kings, but in the fields, tending sheep. There, he developed the skill and faith to defeat Goliath. Or think of the widow in Elisha’s day, who had only a small jar of oil. Her willingness to act on that small resource led to miraculous provision.
Innovation is not always flashy. It is an act of stewardship. God has placed gifts inside every young South Sudanese heart. Every idea, every skill, every dream — they are seeds waiting for rain. Whether it's tailoring, agriculture, carpentry, coding, or filmmaking, these are gifts from God, waiting to be fanned into flame.
Beloved, your time is now. No more waiting. Embrace education. Learn new skills. Dream big. The governor’s message is not only a state initiative. It is a divine invitation to step into your purpose.
Let the world no longer speak of Jonglei only in terms of floods or fighting, but of startups, innovation hubs, and young leaders transforming their communities. You are not the leaders of tomorrow. You are the changemakers of today.
Prayer
O Lord, we lift up the youth of our nation before You. Breathe life into their visions. Ignite innovation in their hearts. Let them walk boldly in the gifts You’ve placed within them. May they rise as solution-bearers, not just for South Sudan, but for Africa and the world.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
