South Sudanese women expressed deep concerns over increasing violence and instability in the country, warning of the potential collapse of key peace agreements. Activist Grace John Kenyi emphasized the importance of safeguarding future generations and called for unity among citizens to address the conflict and its economic implications. They condemned the misuse of social media while urging both local and international stakeholders to actively participate in promoting peace and accountability.
On Monday, a group of South Sudanese women expressed grave concerns regarding the deteriorating conditions in their country during a press conference held in Juba. Grace John Kenyi, a noted peace activist and human rights defender, represented these women and condemned the escalating violence, particularly highlighting recent conflicts in Nasir, Upper Nile State, that began on February 14, 2025.
The gathered women conveyed their condolences to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) following the loss of a crew member and all families mourning relatives due to the ongoing conflict. They emphasized their alarm about the precarious status of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and the Tumaini Initiative.
Kenyi noted, “We are profoundly alarmed by the growing threats to the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and the Tumaini Initiative, both are now at serious risk of collapsing amidst rising political instability and insecurity. These troubling developments are reigniting fears of a return to full-scale war.” She further questioned the future of South Sudan if the current generation is not safeguarded.
The women called for unity among all citizens to end the ongoing conflict and to mitigate the worsening economic crisis that heavily impacts vulnerable populations. They denounced the misuse of social media that exacerbates local tensions and promotes divisiveness.
Acknowledging the government’s efforts to uphold peace, the women also honored citizens who embrace humanity and choose peaceful paths forward. Kenyi encouraged all signatories of the R-ARCSS to engage in dialogue, emphasizing its importance for conflict resolution and urging an expedited unification and deployment of forces needed to ensure security.
There was a compassionate appeal for the international community to conduct an independent investigation into recent violence, holding accountable those responsible for atrocities perpetrated. Kenyi specifically urged various ministries to prioritize dialogue and enforce the rule of law while expediting peace agreement implementations to return stability and justice to citizens.
The women appealed to peacekeeping entities, including the Ceasefire Transitional Security Arrangement, Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM), to enhance their efforts in maintaining peace by adhering strictly to ceasefire agreements and ensuring accountability for violations. They called on diplomatic missions to exert influence for peace and promote humanitarian assistance.
The activist group urged the White Army, an armed youth faction, to abandon violence, commit to ceasefires, and engage in peaceful dialogue. Lilian Sukeji Micheal, another activist, stated their intention to mobilize women in positions of power to further the cause of peace in South Sudan by distributing their message to esteemed political female figures.
In summary, South Sudanese women are proactively addressing the escalating violence and instability in their country. They strongly advocate for peaceful dialogue and immediate action from stakeholders to protect vulnerable populations. Their collective voice emphasizes the urgent need for accountability for violence and the importance of uniting efforts across various sectors to restore peace and stability in South Sudan. The commitment and solidarity expressed by these women signal hope for a more peaceful future.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
