This month, as South Sudan celebrates 10 years of independence from its northern neighbor, Sudan, 43-year-old Pious Lokale of Lafon county in Eastern Equatoria tells us about the hope that independence brought, the devastation wrought by subsequent civil wars and takes stock of where his country stands at this current moment in history.

What are your expectations for this country as South Sudan marks its 10^th anniversary as a sovereign nation?

My biggest hope when I returned to my village in 2008 was that we would have peace and development. That is the same expectation I have today, that peace is finally coming to us. I believe that our 10^th anniversary should be a turning point for our leaders, our communities and young people. Our politicians need to adjust the system of governance and pursue good governance founded on democratic principles so that we will enjoy durable peace and participate in the economic development of our country.

It is time for us to put our house in order, to restore citizens’ trust in our government and initiate a healing and reconciliation process so that all South Sudanese can be united.

How have the civil wars of 2013 and 2016 impacted lives?

The hope that independence gave rise in me was soon destroyed by the outbreak of civil war. As citizens we were not only afraid for our lives but were plunged into a violent quagmire of greed, petty politics and utter despair. Lives and personal properties were lost, public and private buildings were also vandalized, children missed out on education.

The war sowed hatred among our people. Unity and national identity were lost; in my opinion, this is why people are now divided along ethnic lines with no immediate path to reconcile with one another since the scars of the past run deep.

The current trend of intercommunal violence, road ambushes, and increased cattle raids happening all over the country is a result of the divisive impact of the wars.