Arop Jonchol
Bor – Al-Wadi Newspaper
Amid ongoing security challenges in South Sudan, where children continue to bear the brunt of violence through killings, abductions, forced recruitment, and sexual abuse, civil society representatives and social workers in Jonglei State have pledged to intensify efforts to protect the rights of conflict-affected children.
This pledge came during a two-day workshop organized by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in the state capital, Bor. The event brought together 50 participants from civil society, grassroots, and non-governmental organizations to discuss the development of effective monitoring and reporting mechanisms, as well as the need to strengthen accountability for violations committed against children.
“UNMISS is fully committed to supporting joint efforts aimed at protecting children affected by armed conflict in Jonglei State,” said Gilbert Nantsa, Head of the Protection, Transition and Reintegration Team at the UNMISS Bor Field Office.
The workshop focused on educating participants about various types of violations, including child killings, injuries, sexual violence, denial of humanitarian aid, school attacks, and the recruitment of child soldiers.
In a heartfelt address, William Kuol Chuol, Jonglei State Minister of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare, warned of the deteriorating conditions in areas such as Akobo, Nyirol, Ayod, and Pigi, noting that many children, women, and elderly individuals are seeking refuge under trees to escape ongoing violence.
“I urge all protection partners to come together and intervene urgently,” the minister pleaded.
Discussions also addressed the often-overlooked impact of conflict on children with disabilities. Grace Kuei, a representative from the Jonglei Women with Disabilities Organization, called for inclusive approaches that ensure the protection of the most vulnerable.
“Children with disabilities face double isolation and lack the social support systems others may have. It is our duty to raise their voices and safeguard their rights,” Kuei emphasized.
At the conclusion of the workshop, participants expressed strong commitments to translating what they had learned into tangible action. Rhoda Nyakir, from the Child Care Organization, stated:
“This workshop came at a crucial moment. We will do everything we can to apply the insights gained to better protect children in our communities.”
