Western Equatoria youth warned against alcohol abuse, misconduct at funerals

YAMBIO – The Governor of Western Equatoria State, Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa, has warned young people and community members against excessive alcohol consumption and disorderly behaviour during funeral ceremonies across the state.

Speaking during a church service on Sunday at Timbiro Episcopal Church of South Sudan (ECS) in Yambio, Governor Rimbasa expressed concern over what he described as a growing trend of alcohol abuse and misconduct by some youths during funeral gatherings.

The governor said the state government has received numerous complaints from community leaders regarding young people who attend funerals but engage in drinking alcohol, roaming the streets at night, and exhibiting unruly conduct that disrupts the solemnity of mourning events.

According to Rimbasa, such behavior undermines the dignity traditionally associated with funeral ceremonies and contradicts long-standing cultural values that emphasise respect, discipline, and solidarity during times of grief.

“We will work together with families, churches, and government institutions to address these behaviours and protect our children from being spoiled by alcohol abuse and irresponsible conduct during funerals in Yambio,” Rimbasa said.

He noted that funeral rites in many communities have historically been moments for families and neighbors to come together in support of the bereaved but warned that the increasing misuse of such gatherings by some youths risks eroding these important cultural traditions.

Community leaders in Yambio County have also raised similar concerns with the state leadership. They say that in recent years, some young people have turned funeral gatherings into opportunities for alcohol consumption and drug use, while others engage in exaggerated displays of emotion that diminish the respect and dignity expected during mourning ceremonies.

In addition to addressing youth behaviour during funerals, Governor Rimbasa also highlighted broader social challenges affecting young women in the community. He noted that many girls become mothers at an early age and later face the burden of raising children on their own after being abandoned by their partners.

“Many men abandon their responsibilities, leaving young women to face difficult lives while raising children. As a government, we will work to address this issue and ensure that women are treated with dignity and equality,” he said.

Rimbasa called on parents, community elders, and religious institutions to take a leading role in guiding young people and reinforcing moral values within their communities. He emphasised that restoring discipline and respect among the youth requires a collective effort from families, churches, and local authorities.

The governor urged communities across Western Equatoria State to work together to preserve cultural traditions and ensure that funeral ceremonies remain respectful occasions dedicated to honouring the deceased and supporting grieving families.