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NPC–SS Strengthens Media–Security Relations in Malakal

The National Press Club–South Sudan (NPC–SS) held a two-day workshop in Malakal, Upper Nile State, on October 7–8, 2026, to strengthen security-media relations in the state ahead of the December polls.

Fixed on the theme “Promoting Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists through Advocacy and Capacity Building for Security Personnel in South Sudan,” the workshop brought together 30 security personnel from various police departments, the National Security Service, and the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces, alongside two members from the Ministry of Information and eight journalists working for various media houses in the state.

Mr. Paul Jimbo, media consultant and trainer, facilitated sessions on freedom of expression, access to information, South Sudan’s media laws, communication with the media during high-pressure situations, conducting media interviews, and protecting journalists during public order events. Using a participatory approach, the sessions encouraged in-depth discussions, shared learning, and collective reflection on the responsibilities of security personnel and journalists.

Police spokesperson and assistant facilitator, Lt. Col. Juma Pur Deng, led discussions on the boundaries and limitations of freedom of expression, noting that “there are certain limits to freedom of expression.” His sessions highlighted the limitations governing the work of both security personnel and journalists, addressing areas with which many participants were previously unfamiliar.

Speaking at the workshop, the Director General of the Ministry of Information and Communication, Hon. Chol Kur, underscored the shared role of journalists and security personnel in nation-building. He emphasized the importance of journalism in the electoral process, stating, “Elections need a lot of work; journalists are highly needed.” However, Hon. Chol noted that unregistered media platforms were operating in the state, saying the ministry is making efforts to address the issue to protect the public from misinformation. Comparing the power of information to that of a gun, he stressed that information should be based on facts. Chol thanked NPC–SS, UNESCO, and JICA for supporting the initiative and called for more capacity-building workshops in the state.

Meanwhile, the State Police Commissioner, Lt. Gen. Louis Gatkuoth, described the workshop as timely. He appreciated the approach of bringing journalists and security personnel together to engage in dialogue on issues that often affect their work. Gatkuoth urged security personnel to take the knowledge gained seriously and put it into practice, while calling on journalists to maintain professionalism and uphold ethical standards. He also thanked the partners for choosing Malakal and requested that personnel who missed the opportunity be considered for future training.

Representing the journalists, Mr. Johnson Amum emphasized the significance of the workshop, noting that it was the first time that journalists and security personnel were brought together in such a setting. He said the engagement helped build mutual knowledge and understanding, adding, “Now we shall be able to work without restrictions.”

Similarly, Maj. Gen. Malek Bol, who represented the security personnel, said participants had benefited greatly from the workshop, particularly by learning things they had not known before. “We have benefited a lot, things that we did not know before,” he said. “The workshop has helped everyone to know their position as well as the common space.”

Maj. Gen. Bol added that the training had better prepared journalists and security personnel to cooperate in their respective duties by helping them understand their differences as well as areas of shared responsibility.

The workshop builds on a UNESCO-led Training of Trainers held in Juba in June 2026 and was supported by JICA South Sudan. NPC–SS is working closely with partners and media institutions to strengthen relationships between the press and security institutions, fostering a safer environment for journalism in South Sudan.

NPC–SS Brings Security Personnel and Journalists for a Dialogue Workshop in Rumbek

The National Press Club–South Sudan (NPC–SS) held a two-day dialogue workshop in Rumbek, Lakes State, on October 1–2, 2026, bringing together security personnel and journalists to strengthen cooperation, promote freedom of expression, and improve journalists’ safety.

Held under the theme “Promoting Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists through Advocacy and Capacity Building for Security Personnel in South Sudan,” the workshop brought together at least 32 security personnel from various police departments, the National Security Service, and the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces, alongside at least ten journalists from media houses operating in the state.

Facilitator Mr. Paul Jimbo led sessions on freedom of expression, access to information, South Sudan’s media laws, communication with the media during high-pressure situations, conducting media interviews, and protecting journalists during public order events. Using a participatory approach, the sessions encouraged open discussion, shared learning, and collective reflection on the responsibilities of both security personnel and journalists.

Police Spokesperson and Assistant Facilitator Lt. Col. Elijah Mabior emphasized the constitutional responsibilities of security personnel, reminding participants: “Your mandate is to protect the communities and their properties.” His sessions highlighted the shared purpose of security personnel and journalists as members of the communities they serve. As one participant observed, “Both security personnel and journalists are members of the community, and they are all working for the good of the country.” These discussions helped reinforce mutual respect and the importance of cooperation.

Speaking at the workshop, the Director General of Information and Communication, Hon. Moses Malok, underscored the connection between the two professions. “You have to know that your work has a link; you have different constitutional duties, but they are all for the good of the country,” he said. Hon. Malok thanked NPC–SS, UNESCO, and JICA for the initiative and called for more media-related capacity-building workshops in Lakes State, citing what he described as extremely low levels of media literacy.

Brig. Gen. Marial Akol Pel said the workshop had equipped participants with valuable knowledge to improve relations between security personnel and journalists. “This workshop will be very helpful to us. Also, the way Paul brought us through the two days has been remarkable,” he said. Representing journalists, Mr. Peter Machuei called on relevant authorities to provide timely access to information, emphasizing that journalists need access to the information they seek to report fairly and accurately.

He also urged his colleagues to produce fair and balanced stories. Expressing concern about the proliferation of unregulated social media platforms operated by people without journalism training, he called on the relevant authorities to address the issue. He further requested training in gender-sensitive reporting, conflict reporting, and peace journalism. Mr. Albino Akec, representing security personnel, thanked the partners for creating a platform for direct engagement between security institutions and the media. Describing the approach as unique, he pledged to protect journalists. “We can have peace if we protect them,” he said.

This workshop builds on a UNESCO-led Training of Trainers held in Juba in June 2026 and was supported by JICA South Sudan. Through continued dialogue and practical cooperation, NPC–SS and its partners are working to strengthen relationships between the press and security institutions and foster a safer environment for journalism in South Sudan.

 

 

NPC–SS Trains Security Personnel and Journalists in Ruweng Administrative Area

The National Press Club – South Sudan (NPC–SS) Conducted a two-day workshop dialogue on freedom of expression, access to information, and the safety of journalists on 24 and 25 of September 2026 in Panrieng, Ruweng Administrative Area.

Centered to the theme “Promoting Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists through Advocacy and Capacity Building for Security Personnel in South Sudan,” the workshop convened over 30 security personnel from the different Police units, members of the National Security Service, South Sudan People’s Defense Forces, and ten journalists working for various media house in Ruweng.

Mr. Paul Jimbo, the lead facilitator explored sessions on freedom of expression and access to information, communication with media during high-pressure situations, South Sudan’s media laws, media interviews, and protecting journalists during public order. These sessions were delivered through a participatory approach enabling in-depth interaction that remain a fiber for improving the work-relationship between journalists and security personnel, especially during this critical electoral period.

In his closing remarks, the Secretary General (SG) of Ruweng Administrative Area, Hon. Kotjang A. Deng underscored that the media is the fourth arm of the government, “Media is the fourth authority, and it has the highest voice over all the other authorities. That is why in any event, if there is no media, that event cannot be seen by other people, and this attests to the power of the media.” The SG further noted that these days, almost everyone with a phone wants to be a journalist, he emphasized the need for continued training to strengthen professionalism and ethics. Hon. Kotjang encouraged the participants to reflect on the knowledge, “go and review the things that you have learnt, you can also advance your knowledge through the internet as well as by sharing among yourselves as you have now become friends.” He further called for professionalism among security personnel emphasizing on friendly engagement with journalists as discussed during the workshop. Kotjang thanked the partners for conducting the event in Ruweng, and stressing the need for more workshops.

On his part, the Director General in the Ministry of Information and Communication, Hon. Chol Charles appreciated NPC-SS, UNESCO and JICA for the meaningful initiative.  Chol noted that bringing journalists and security personnel together is a unique approach that can positively build lasting relationship between the two actors of the state. He appreciated the participants for their patience and asked them to reflect the knowledge in the field.

Mr. Nyok Luk who represented the journalists, said “The truth is that we have benefited a lot from this workshop – among others, we learned how to build a healthy relationship between the journalists and security personnel,” adding that these two sides can work together. Nyok stressed that the two days were short but very impactful. He encouraged his colleagues to apply the knowledge and refrain from taking sides, “we need to be straight, and avoid bending to the right or left,” he said.

Anthony Majok, representative of security personnel, said the two-day workshop have cemented a good relationship between them and the journalists. “This two-day workshop has brought us together and we have learned about our different responsibilities.” “No one will again interfere in another’s work without fully understanding the situation,” he added.

This training builds on a UNESCO-led Training of Trainers held in Juba in June 2026 and is supported by JICA South Sudan. This comes third in a schedule of seven trainings in seven different locations. NPC–SS and its partners will continue to strengthen the media landscape by fostering dialogue and practical cooperation between the press and security institutions to achieve a conducive environment for the media during and beyond the elections.

 

NPC–SS Trains Security Personnel and Journalists in Unity State, Rubkon

Originally published on 18, September, 2026. 
The National Press Club – South Sudan (NPC–SS) held a two-day training dialogue on freedom of expression, access to information, and the safety of journalists on 16 and 17 of September 2026 in Rubkona, Unity State.
Held under the theme “Promoting Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists through Advocacy and Capacity-building for Security Personnel in South Sudan,” the workshop brought together at least 32 security personnel from the different Police departments, members of the National Security Service, and the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces, alongside ten journalists working for various media houses in the State.
Lead facilitator, Mr. Paul Jimbo guided sessions on freedom of expression and access to information, communication with media during high-pressure situations, South Sudan’s media laws, conducting media interviews, and protecting journalists during public order events. The Police Commissioner and assistant facilitator, Maj. Gen Samuel Tet Machar lead critical sessions emphasizing building strong relationship between journalists and security personnel. His presentation strengthened the understanding that journalists and security personnel are equally important in nation-building.
In her speech, the Minister of Information and Communication, Hon. Nyakenya Johannes Keah thanked UNESCO and JICA for the financial support while appreciating NPC-SS for the effective planning and coordination leading to the auspicious event in Unity State. Hon. Nyakenya underscored that partners’ dedication to enhancing the relationship between journalists and security personnel is an investment in peace, public trust, accountability and the future of South Sudan. She further stressed “freedom of expression is not the enemy of security, responsible journalism is not the enemy of the police and the police is not the enemy of the media.” Nyakenya remarked that such trainings are important especially as the country move towards the scheduled elections.
On his remarks, the Commissioner of police, Maj. Gen Samuel Tet Machar emphasized that relationship between journalists and security personnel is necessary and important. He challenged the participants to take the knowledge they acquired seriously, urging that the results should be seen in the field.
Female participants’ representative, Ms. Nyamai Both Chan stated that the workshop created a new way of thinking for them as security personnel. “We are going to see the journalists as people like us, also doing their work,” she said, adding “Our relationship is going to be good.”
Mr. Mamuor Chotchar Ali who represented male participants said the workshop helped him to learn unique things. “There are things that we got from this workshop which are very new,” he said, adding that the journalists gained confidence to cover crime scenes and conflicts both professionally and ethically.
This training builds on a UNESCO-led Training of Trainers held in Juba in June 2026 and is supported by JICA South Sudan. It comes second a out of seven training scheduled to take place in seven states and three administrative areas. NPC–SS and its partners will continue to strengthen the media landscape by fostering dialogue and practical cooperation between the press and security institutions.

NPC–SS Trains Security Personnel and Journalists in GPAA, Pibor

Originally Published on 3, September 2026
The National Press Club – South Sudan (NPC–SS) conducted a two-day training on freedom of expression, access to information, and the safety of journalists om September 2 and 3 in the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA).
Held under the theme “Promoting Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists through Advocacy and Capacity Building for Security Personnel in South Sudan,” the workshop convened at least 33 security personnel from the different Police Departments, members of the National Security Service, the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces and ten journalists from Pibor Radio as well as representatives from the Ministry of Information, GPAA. The event was also attended by key stakeholders including Hon. Jacob Werchum, the Minister of Information and Communication, representative of the Police Commissioner, the SSPDF Commander and other high ranking stakeholders, and became a conducive space for journalists and security personnel to share their experiences and challenges in working with each other enhancing their relationship.
Lead facilitator Mr. Paul Jimbo guided sessions on freedom of expression and access to information, communication with media during high-pressure situations, South Sudan’s media laws, conducting media interviews, and protecting journalists during public order events.
In his closing remarks, Hon. Jacob Werchum, the Minister of Information and communication, described the training as vital for the GPAA and said it will help build professional and constructive relationships between journalists and security personnel. Jacob urged the participants to apply the knowledge learned in the field and ensuring that journalists are not harassed while challenging the journalists to do professional job as discussed in the training. Hon. Werchum thanked NPC–SS, UNESCO and JICA for taking the training to Pibor and requested for continued engagement to ensure that Pibor benefits from any future initiatives “sometimes there are many things that are done in Juba or in other places, but those things does not reach to Pibor. I thank the partners for bringing this workshop here and they should continue to extend any trainings done in Juba to Pibor so that our people are able to learn and serve with ethics professionalism.”
Brig. General Giroc Teny welcomed the training as timely and transformative for media-security relations in Pibor, noting that such capacity-building had not been previously offered in the area. With national elections approaching in December, he asked NPC–SS and partners to return to train additional personnel who could not attend due to limited number of participants.
Participants who attended the two days workshop shared a positive feedback. Female Police, Ms. Mary Lokoli who represented the female participants said the workshop broadened her understanding of how to maintain professional relations with journalists, especially during crime scenes. On his part, Col. Juma Bokor, representing male participants emphasized that the workshop reinforced the view that journalists and security personnel are equally essential partners in nation-building. He thanked the organizers, calling for a repeat of the event.
This training builds on a UNESCO-led Training of Trainers held in Juba in June 2026 through the generous support JICA South Sudan. The National Press Club–South Sudan and its partners will continue to strengthen the media landscape by fostering dialogue and practical cooperation between the press and security institutions.

NPC-SS Strengthens Stakeholder Engagement to Advance Women’s Leadership

Pibor, April 21, 2025 – The National Press Club South Sudan has continued to push for more grassroots support to its activities in Pibor. As part of the ongoing efforts under the “Women’s Leadership and Political Participation during South Sudan’s Transition Period” project, funded by the Peacebuilding Fund through UN Women, Mr. Poverty Alfred (Pat Alfric), technical expert and Board member of the National Press Club South Sudan (NPC-SS), continues to lead meaningful stakeholder engagement in the Pibor Administrative Area.

Today, April 21, Mr. Alfred held a constructive meeting with Mr. Jonshir, Program Manager at Pibor Radio, and Mrs. Ruth Korok, a highly respected area chief and one of the most prominent female leaders in the community. Mrs. Ruth, who has served in her role for the past three years, is widely regarded as a trailblazer and role model for young women in Pibor. During the meeting, she highlighted how her leadership has contributed to amplifying women’s voices and strengthening female representation in local decision-making. “When young women see themselves in leadership, they begin to believe in their own potential. That’s what drives me,” said Chief Ruth.

Building on these community partnerships, Mr. Alfred, alongside NPC-SS’s Pibor Field Officer, will facilitate a mentorship session for young women on April 22. The session will provide a platform for emerging female leaders to gain insights, build confidence, and engage in dialogue with experienced role models.

In another key milestone, NPC-SS will officially launch a Girls’ Leadership Club at Riojakor Secondary School on Thursday, April 24. The club will serve as a hub for leadership development, mentorship, and civic education, aiming to empower the next generation of female leaders in Pibor and beyond.

These activities reflect NPC-SS’s commitment to grassroots empowerment, inclusive governance, and the creation of safe spaces for young women to lead and thrive in South Sudan’s evolving political landscape.

Mr. Poverty Alfred and Mr. Jonshir pose for a photo in the studios of Pibor Radio.

Mr. Alfred, NPC-SS technical advisor, and Mrs. Ruth, female chief pose for a photo at Ruth’s residency.

NPC-SS Board Member Arrives in Pibor to Boost Women’s Leadership Project

Pibor,  Friday, March 18, 2025– The National Press Club South Sudan (NPC-SS) continues to strengthen its grassroots efforts with the arrival of Mr. Poverty Alfred, NPC-SS Technical Advisor and Member of the Board of Directors, in the Pibor Administrative Area.

Mr. Alfred’s visit is part of ongoing efforts to ensure the successful implementation of the project titled “Women’s Leadership and Political Participation during South Sudan’s Transition Period,” supported by the Peacebuilding Fund through UN Women. His presence on the ground aims to provide critical technical support, strengthen local engagement, and maximize the impact of the initiative within the Greater Pibor Area (GPA).

In preparation for two major activities scheduled for next week, Mr. Alfred has already held high-level engagements with local authorities. He met with Hon. Nyiinginga Okanho, Commissioner for Peacebuilding, and Hon. James Nikcho, Minister of Information, Communication, and Postal Services–GPA. Both officials expressed enthusiasm about NPC-SS’s growing presence in the area and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the initiative.

“We are excited to welcome NPC-SS to Pibor. This project aligns with our goals of peacebuilding and inclusive governance,” said Hon. Okanho.

Mr. Alfred noted that such collaboration with local leadership is vital to ensuring that the project’s goals—empowering women to take active roles in political and leadership processes—are fully realized.

“We are here to listen, support, and work with local stakeholders to ensure that this initiative is not just a one-time intervention, but part of a lasting movement for inclusive leadership,” he said.

The upcoming activities including mentorship session for young women and establishment of Girls’ Leadership Club are expected to bring together women leaders, community members, and local government actors to advance dialogue and build capacity around women’s participation in governance during South Sudan’s transition period.

Hon. Nyiinginga Okanho, Chairperson of peacebuilding ommission, and Mr. Poverty Alfred, NPC-SS technical advisor take a photo together.

Hon. James Nikcho, Minister of Information, Communication, and Postal Services (Left) Mr. Poverty Alfred (right), pose for a photo.

Press club to start media coalition to promote gender sensitization

Originally published by Radio Tamazuj on April 11, 2025.

Speaking during a one-day round table dialogue which brought participants from media houses, women, and representatives from various organizations, Delphina Roba, the deputy chairperson of the NPC board, said the purpose of establishing the media coalition group is to address inadequate representation of women voices in the media.

She noted that despite the media being a great tool in shaping opinion in South Sudan, women’s voices remain absent in the media space, assuring that the media coalition group can act as a solution to this gap.

“Media in South Sudan, especially radio, plays a great role in our communities by shaping the opinion of our people and influencing political and social participation,” she stated. “However, there are inadequate women’s voices in the media space, and to address this, NPC, in collaboration with the media stakeholders and gender advocates, proposes the establishment of a media coalition.”

“The coalition will work towards building a more inclusive media environment that involves women and promotes their participation in social, economic, and political life,” Roba added.

The initiative is part of a UN projects and is titled “Women’s Leadership and Political Participation During Transition.”

The roundtable discussion also explored the role of media in shaping women’s public image.

“Through this dialogue and commitments, women’s voices will be respected and represented in the media families,” Roba said. “One of the goals of this roundtable dialogue is to first have a dialogue between media representatives and women activists or leaders on the role of the media and promoting women’s participation. The establishment of a coalition is a strategic step towards transforming the media landscape in South Sudan into an equitable and empowering space.”

For his part, Kido Joseph, the Director General in the National Ministry of Peacebuilding, said it is paramount to ensure that once established, the media coalition should indeed support women to achieve their goals.

“How can the media coalition support our women leaders in politics, business, civil society organizations, grassroots movements, gender, and the development partners achieve their objectives?” he asked.  “The second question is what benefits do governments and organizations gain from having women in leadership positions? Remember, we have keywords today like leadership and political participation. That means that as we envision our elections, we are going to have several young women contesting for key positions, and those who will succeed will also be participating in the political leadership positions.”

Media representatives, women advocates and NPC-SS staff pose for a group photo during the event. Photo by Mr. John Riak/Unipod

Media representatives, women advocates, NPC-SS deputy chair, Mrs. Delphina Roba and Hon. Kido Joseph in a photo during opening remarks. Photo by Mr. John Riak/Unipod

NPC-SS Launches Girls’ Leadership Club: Inspiring Future Women Leaders

Juba, March 28, 2025 – In a bold step toward advancing gender equality and female leadership, the National Press Club South Sudan (NPC-SS) has launched a Girls’ Leadership Club at St. Lawrence Academy, Hai Refrundum, Juba. The official launch event, held at the school premises, was attended by the student body, school officials, and women leaders.

This milestone initiative is made possible with the generous support of the Peacebuilding Fund through UN Women, aligning with national and global efforts to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment. The establishment of the club marks a pivotal step in NPC-SS’s broader mission to increase the representation of women in leadership and media spaces across South Sudan. The Girls’ Leadership Club was designed as a transformative space where young girls can explore leadership in all its dimensions—from self-awareness and public speaking to civic participation and policy advocacy. Through a series of interactive workshops, mentorship programs, and dialogue sessions, members will be equipped with the confidence and tools they need to envision themselves as leaders in their communities and beyond.

“True change begins with our girls,” said NPC-SS BOD chair. “By investing in their leadership potential today, we are planting the seeds for a more inclusive, equitable, and peaceful future.”

NPC-SS recognizes that sustainable change begins at the grassroots. Through this club, young girls will gain the knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills necessary to participate meaningfully in decision-making processes. As South Sudan continues to build its democratic institutions, the Girls’ Leadership Club stands as a symbol of progress—a platform where future female leaders can grow, be heard, and drive inclusive governance.

This initiative not only fosters leadership but also challenges deep-rooted societal norms, paving the way for a more equitable and representative society.

Nominated leaders, NPC-SS gender advisor Ms. Patricia and BOD chair Mr. Bullen pose for a photo

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Students and Patron Mrs. Nancy, NPC-SS gender advisor, Ms. Patricia and BOD chair Mr. Bullen pose for a group photo after the event.

NPC-SS Hosts Radio Talk Shows to Promote Women’s Political Participation

Juba, South Sudan – The National Press Club South Sudan (NPC-SS), with support from the Peacebuilding Fund through UN Women, has been conducting a series of radio talk shows on Eye Radio to enhance public awareness on women’s participation in politics and leadership before and after the upcoming South Sudan elections.

The talk shows aired on Friday, March 14, and Friday, March 28, 2025, from 4:00 to 5:00 PM, featuring discussions on critical themes such as Women’s Political Participation and Leadership and Breaking Barriers: Transforming Women’s Participation.

The programs brought together a panel of distinguished guests, including: Ms. Nyayo Rejoice and Ms. Agnes Dramio Martin – Students of law from the University of Juba, Mr. Mandre Joel Smith – from National Transitional Leadership Initiative, Molana Merio Jimmy – Legal expert on and lecturer at Ccatholic Univeristy, Ms. Jackline John, staff at the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, and Hon. Henry Kala – chairperson of Central Equatoria State’s independent commission for reconciliation.

Joined with radio listeners and online followers, the discussions focused on various key issues, including: The Importance of Women in Leadership and the benefits of gender inclusivity; Barriers to Women’s Political Participation and the challenges they face in leadership roles; The Role of Men in Supporting Women’s Political Leadership; Women Against Women – how internal biases and competition hinder progress; Bridging the Gender Gap – fostering collaboration between men and women in governance; Culture and Women’s Leadership – examining how traditional beliefs impact women’s leadership potential

Speaking during the shows, Ms. Agnes Dramio Martin emphasized that women’s involvement in politics is crucial for national development. “A society that excludes women from leadership is limiting its own growth. Women bring unique perspectives that enhance governance and peacebuilding,” she stated. Similarly, Hon. Jackline John shared her personal experiences in overcoming challenges as a woman in politics “We must break the stereotypes that politics is a man’s space. Women are capable leaders, and their voices must be heard,” she said.

The radio series aims to encourage more women to participate in leadership while challenging societal norms that limit their political engagement. The initiative has received positive feedback from listeners, sparking conversations across communities about gender inclusivity in governance. NPC-SS and its partners plan to continue engaging the public through media platforms to promote a more inclusive political landscape in South Sudan.

 

Guests at Eye Radio studios during a talk show on March 28, 2025 Photo: Eye Radio/ Staff

Guests at Eye Radio during a talk show on March 21, 2025 Photo: Eye Radio/ Staff

Guests at Radio Miraya during a talk show on March 17, 2025 Phot: Radio Miraya/ Staff