Women of South Sudan Call for Urgent Action Amidst Violence and Instability

South Sudanese women, led by activist Grace John Kenyi, expressed grave concerns over violence and the possible collapse of peace agreements during a Juba press conference. They called for immediate action from stakeholders, denounced hate speech on social media, and emphasized the importance of women in leadership roles for peace initiatives.

A coalition of South Sudanese women expressed significant concerns regarding the deteriorating situation in their country during a press conference held in Juba. On behalf of the women, peace activist and human rights defender Grace John Kenyi cautioned about the potential collapse of the 2018 peace agreement and the Tumaini Initiative, particularly following the violent clashes that took place in Nasir, Upper Nile State on February 14, 2025.

The group conveyed their condolences to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) for a crew member lost in recent violence, while also extending their sympathies to the families mourning the conflict’s casualties. They emphasized the urgent need for restraint as instability grows. Kenyi articulated their worries, saying, “We are profoundly alarmed by the growing threats to the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS)… These troubling developments are reigniting fears of a return to full-scale war.”

Kenyi further highlighted the human cost of the violence, asserting that those lost are not mere statistics but vital members of society and the future of South Sudan. Calling for unity, the women urged immediate action from all stakeholders to mitigate both the ongoing conflict and the economic crisis profoundly affecting vulnerable populations.

The activists condemned the misuse of social media, which has been employed to propagate hate speech and misinformation, stressing that such actions escalate community tensions. While acknowledging the government’s efforts to maintain peace, they praised citizens who continuously uphold humanitarian values and advocate for peace.

Kenyi insisted that all signatories of the R-ARCSS must engage in dialogue to de-escalate tensions and advance agreements necessary for securing peace. Additionally, she appealed to the international community for support in conducting independent investigations into the violence and holding perpetrators accountable.

The activists called on various governmental ministries to prioritize dialogue, enforce the rule of law, protect vulnerable citizens, and expedite the implementation of peace agreements. They also urged the Ceasefire Transitional Security Arrangement, Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM), and regional bodies such as the African Union and IGAD to enhance peace promotion efforts.

The women appealed to diplomatic missions in the region to leverage their influence for peace, advocate for accountability and human rights, and provide humanitarian aid to those affected by the crisis. They also called upon the White Army to renounce violence and engage in peaceful dialogue with the government.

In addition, Lilian Sukeji Micheal, another activist, announced plans to involve women in high government positions in peace efforts. She indicated that they would distribute statements to ensure those women engage actively in promoting peace initiatives.

In summary, South Sudanese women are vocally raising their concerns over the escalating violence and potential collapse of peace initiatives in their country. They call for immediate action to address the conflict, promote dialogue, and involve women in leadership roles to foster peace. Their commitment to combatting misinformation and advocating for humanitarian efforts reflects a united front for stability and security in South Sudan.

Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org