JUBA, South Sudan
Former Warrap State Governor Gen. Aleu Ayieny Aleu has sounded the alarm over what he calls a dangerous rise in “Gen-Z armed vigilante groups” across South Sudan blaming government and societal neglect of the country’s youth for creating fertile ground for insecurity.
Speaking during a church event in Juba, Gen. Aleu said the lack of attention to the needs, aspirations, and frustrations of young people is pushing a new generation into self-styled vigilante groups, some of which are already taking up arms and acting outside the law.
“Our young people have been ignored for too long. We talk about peace and development, but the youth the majority of this nation are left behind,” Gen. Aleu stated.
Rise of “Gen-Z” Vigilante Movements
According to Gen. Aleu, South Sudan is witnessing the emergence of informal armed youth groups such as The Crew, The Red Belt, These Cattle Restless, and others.
These groups, mostly composed of young men born after the war of liberation, are increasingly asserting themselves as vigilantes in both urban and rural areas.
He noted that these new formations represent a “Gen-Z rebellion” not against the state itself, but against neglect, unemployment, and a lack of national direction.
“They see no future. They see no opportunities. When leaders forget the youth, they create an army of hopelessness,” he warned.
Neglect and Lost Opportunities
Analysts have long warned that South Sudan’s soaring youth unemployment rate combined with poor education systems and limited government programs is a ticking time bomb.
Gen. Aleu, who served as both governor and senior military commander, said the country’s leaders have focused too heavily on politics and peace deals while ignoring the economic empowerment of the younger generation.
He called for immediate policy reforms and youth-centered programs to address the growing crisis.
“This is no longer a political problem; it is a national security issue,” he emphasized. “A neglected generation will find its own way and sometimes, that way leads to the gun.”
Call for Presidential Intervention
The former governor urged President Salva Kiir Mayardit and Special Presidential Envoy Adut Salva Kiir to make youth development a special national project.
He argued that empowering young people should be seen not just as a social initiative, but as a peace and security priority, warning that without immediate government intervention, vigilante culture could evolve into organized criminal or militia movements.
“We must bring the youth to the center of our national agenda in education, agriculture, innovation, and leadership. They need to feel seen and valued,” Gen. Aleu said.
A Generational Challenge
Observers say the Gen-Z generation in South Sudan those aged roughly 18 to 30 have grown up amid war, displacement, and weak institutions. With limited access to education or jobs, many turn to informal networks or armed groups for identity and protection.
Local reports indicate that some vigilante youth movements in states like Warrap, Jonglei, and Lakes have clashed with security forces, raising fears of a new security dilemma driven by generational frustration.
Reactions and Public Debate
Gen. Aleu’s remarks have reignited a national debate about youth inclusion, with community leaders and civil society figures echoing his concerns.
Some activists say the government’s youth policies remain largely on paper, while implementation is weak.
Others argue that without urgent investment in civic education, sports, and employment schemes, South Sudan risks “losing an entire generation” to armed activism.
The Bottom Line
Gen. Aleu’s warning underscores a harsh reality: South Sudan’s peace and stability depend not only on political elites but also on how the nation treats its youth.
As the former governor put it, “Ignoring our youth today is arming our problems for tomorrow.”
With elections approaching and tensions rising in several states, his call serves as a timely reminder that youth neglect is not just a social failure, it’s a national security threat.
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