South Sudanese Women Voice Concerns Over Escalating Violence and Peace Agreement Collapse
South Sudanese women, represented by activist Grace John Kenyi, expressed deep concerns over escalating violence and the risk of collapsing peace agreements at a press conference in Juba. They condemned the increased violence, particularly following recent clashes in Nasir, and called for immediate action from stakeholders to address the ongoing conflict and economic crisis. They emphasized the importance of dialogue, accountability, and women’s involvement in peacebuilding initiatives.
Women in South Sudan expressed grave concerns regarding the deteriorating circumstances in their country during a press conference held in Juba. Grace John Kenyi, a prominent peace activist and human rights defender, articulated their fears about the potential collapse of the 2018 peace agreement and the Tumaini Initiative due to escalating violence, particularly following the recent clashes in Nasir, Upper Nile State, on February 14, 2025.
The women extended their condolences to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) for the loss of a crew member and to families mourning the casualties of ongoing conflicts. They condemned the increasing violence and highlighted their alarm regarding the threats to the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and the Tumaini Initiative.
Kenyi emphasized the threat posed by political instability and insecurity, expressing a collective concern over the lives lost, stating, “The lives lost are not mere statistics, they are brothers, sisters, children, and the future leaders of our nation.” The women called for immediate action to resolve the current conflict and address the worsening economic crisis affecting the vulnerable population.
Additionally, the activists denounced the use of social media for spreading hate speech and misinformation, which exacerbates tensions within communities. They acknowledged governmental efforts to maintain peace amidst conflict and commended citizens who promote humanity and peace.
Kenyi urged all signatories of the R-ARCSS to engage in dialogue as the preferred conflict resolution method and demanded that the international community support independent investigations into violence in South Sudan. The women’s coalition also called on relevant ministries to prioritize dialogue, enforce the rule of law, and accelerate the implementation of peace agreements to restore stability.
Further, they requested that the Ceasefire Transitional Security Arrangement and other international bodies intensify efforts to promote peace by adhering to agreements and holding violators accountable. The group also encouraged diplomatic missions to leverage their influence for peace and support humanitarian efforts in the region. They appealed to the White Army to renounce violence and consider peaceful dialogue.
Activist Lilian Sukeji Micheal announced plans to engage women in influential governmental roles to pursue peace initiatives actively, stating their commitment to distribute statements advocating for women’s involvement in peacebuilding efforts.
In summary, South Sudanese women have voiced profound concerns regarding the escalating violence and the risk of collapsing peace agreements. They have called for decisive actions from stakeholders to halt the conflict and protect vulnerable citizens. Through collaborative efforts and advocacy for dialogue, these women strive to effect change and restore stability, security, and justice in South Sudan.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
