South Sudan Catholic Bishop urges tougher laws against human trafficking

YAMBIO — A leading Catholic bishop in South Sudan has called on government authorities to enact and enforce stronger laws to combat human trafficking, describing the act as a profound violation of human dignity and a threat to the nation’s moral and social fabric.

Barani Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala, Bishop of the Diocese of Tambura–Yambio in Western Equatoria State, made this call on Saturday during a public event organized by the Coordinator for Anti-Human Trafficking.

“We call on communities to act as advocates for victims and to raise awareness about the dangers of human trafficking, especially among children, who remain the most vulnerable,” Bishop Eduardo said.

Bishop Eduardo reflected on the life of Saint Josephine Bakhita, who was trafficked as a child and later became a symbol of hope and resilience.

He shared her response when asked how she would react if she encountered those who had trafficked her.

Bishop stated that Saint Bakhita had shown she would kneel and thank them, acknowledging that through her suffering, she came to know Jesus Christ.

“Her story is still relevant today, as many individuals in the country continue to experience humiliation, exploitation, and violation of their rights,” he said.

He reminded the audience that Saint Bakhita was trafficked at the age of seven and underscored the importance of protecting young people from exploitation.

“We cautioned children and youth to avoid harmful peer influence that could expose them to danger.”

He concluded by urging people to promote love, respect, and compassion in society, stressing that human trafficking cannot thrive where genuine respect for humanity exists.

Meanwhile, the Coordinator for Anti-Human Trafficking, Mr. Giningakpio Justin Dabu, called on the government, institutions, and religious leaders to strengthen collaboration in the fight against modern slavery.

In a related remark, Mr. Philip Fadul Kisanga, a member of the anti-human trafficking group, told the media that human beings are not commodities to be bought or sold.

He stressed that every individual deserves dignity and respect and that these rights must be safeguarded at all times.