Better civil-military relations key for children in Tonj East to prosper – Africa.com
“As a soldier and a mother, I have seen how conflict robs children of their childhood. This training taught me that even in war, we can protect them from harm. It is our responsibility to foster hope in them, Instead of letting fear take over,” said Private Mary Adut, who serves in the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces.
Private Adut, along with about 60 of his uniformed colleagues, 10 of them women, participated in a two-day workshop in Romichi, in the conflict-affected Toni East County, aimed at strengthening the armed forces’ knowledge needed to avoid serious violations of children’s rights. Common abuses include the recruitment and use of children, killing and maiming, sexual violence, attacks on schools and hospitals, kidnapping and the denial of humanitarian assistance to children in need.
In parts of Warrap state prone to violent conflict (either between ethnic groups or between armed forces and civilians), the ubiquitous presence of armed individuals, whether uniformed or not, makes girls and boys particularly vulnerable to recruitment by armed groups or otherwise use.
Joseph Deng Ather, child protection officer at the United Nations Mission in the South, explained: “This conference aims to strengthen the military’s ability to keep young people safe and promote cooperation, thereby building relationships between the military and the communities they serve. Trust.” Sudan (UNMISS) organized the training in partnership with local authorities.
Commander Maj. Bol Maple spoke on behalf of the men and women in attendance, endorsing the key messages conveyed by the presenters.
“This is a critical step forward. We strongly urge our peace partners to engage with and energize our young people, giving them the tools they need to strengthen themselves and their communities rather than join the military.”
For many Soldiers, the seminar is a call to action.
“What we choose to do or not do can protect or harm children. We have the power to influence them, and we are reminded of our humanity. Even when we find ourselves in conflict, we must not forget this,” said Sergeant Deng Zhe. .
While tensions remain in and around Romichi, there is hope for better and more trusting relations between the armed forces and civilians, leading to a future where girls and boys can play, be children, and let textbooks take their place firearms.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
