South Sudanese Women Express Urgent Concerns Over Escalating Violence

South Sudanese women, represented by activist Grace John Kenyi, have raised concerns about escalating violence threatening peace agreements, urging immediate action to safeguard vulnerable populations and restore stability in the country. They condemned the misuse of social media and called for dialogue among all parties involved. Additionally, they reached out to local and international stakeholders for support.

South Sudanese women have expressed serious concerns regarding the deteriorating situation in the country, alerting to the potential collapse of the 2018 peace agreement and the Tumaini Initiative. During a press conference in Juba, peace activist Grace John Kenyi represented various women’s groups, condemning the recent escalation of violence following clashes in Nasir, Upper Nile State, on February 14, 2025.

The women conveyed their condolences to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) for the loss of its crew member and the families grieving from the conflict. They emphasize the urgent need for restraint and protection against the growing threats to the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and the Tumaini Initiative. “We are profoundly alarmed by the growing threats… These troubling developments are reigniting fears of a return to full-scale war,” Kenyi stated.

The women’s groups advocated for unity among all citizens to halt the current conflict and address the worsening economic crisis impacting the vulnerable population. They strongly denounce the misuse of social media to propagate hate speech and misinformation, asserting that such actions escalate community tensions.

While acknowledging the government’s commitment to maintaining peace despite ongoing conflicts, the activists commend citizens who uphold humane values and pursue peace. Kenyi urged R-ARCSS signatories to resolve tensions through dialogue and accelerate the deployment of necessary forces for national security.

Additionally, they called upon governmental ministries to urgently prioritize dialogue and enforce the rule of law, aiming to restore stability and justice for all citizens. The women appealed to international bodies such as the African Union (AU) and IGAD to enhance peace efforts in South Sudan and enforce ceasefire agreements.

Furthermore, they urged diplomatic missions in South Sudan to leverage their influence toward fostering peace, promoting accountability, and providing humanitarian aid. This includes encouraging armed groups like the White Army to cease violence and engage in peaceful dialogue with leadership.

Lilian Sukeji Micheal, another activist, noted their intention to reach out to women in high government positions, distributing their appeal for peace to ensure their involvement in the process.

In summary, South Sudanese women have voiced deep concerns regarding the escalating violence and instability threatening both peace agreements and the future of the nation. They advocate for urgent action to halt the conflict, promote dialogue, and protect vulnerable populations. Their appeal is for unity, governmental accountability, and international support to ensure lasting peace and stability in South Sudan.

Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org