Resourceful women in “hidden place” Cithou ask for school, healthcare and justice
Cithou is a small village 30 kilometers from Kuajok, aptly called the “hidden place”. It’s a place few people have seen or heard of, isolated by muddy roads caused by devastating floods.
However, that is set to change following the first visit by peacekeepers from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
Unsurprisingly, their journey into the unknown is a difficult one, traversing rugged and sometimes swampy terrain to deliver a global 16 days of activism against gender-based violence and a message of solidarity to Cithou. But they did it.
Uniformed and civilian peacekeepers were warmly welcomed, and residents were eager to share their stories.
“I have to admit that we often feel forgotten,” said Akon Lual, a mother of five. “Our children don’t go to school. We started laying bricks to build one but couldn’t finish it. Hunger and insecurity hinder us every day.”
Not only is Cithou missing a school, medical facilities and police are also conspicuous by their absence. Disease or snake bites – both common during the rainy season – come and those who live here are left to fend for themselves.
“For us, flooding is not an inconvenience but a life-threatening situation. On the other hand, rainfall can be transformed into an opportunity for farming if we only have the necessary tools and a little support.” Reflects Paramount Chief Deng Mayom road.
In addition to the obvious lack of infrastructure and agricultural equipment and the resulting food insecurity, perpetrators of gender-based violence and other crimes can often rest assured that they will not be held accountable.
“Without police or access to justice, impunity prevails. This means our women and children do not feel as safe as they should and deserve,” said Paramount Chief Deng.
However, the women of Cithou don’t have to delve deep into history to find inspiration and hope to take on more influential roles in their communities.
“There are powerful examples of women in leadership positions in South Sudan, even locally. Think of Nyandeng Malek, who became the first female governor of Warrap State in 2010. You need to continue to push for change because you are a leader yourself “,” said Ajok Angok, Civil Affairs Officer of UNMISS.
Using the meager resources they have, Cithou women strive to supplement their meager livelihoods with their exquisite craftsmanship. The display of colorful baskets, intricate beaded jewelry and other handmade trinkets impressed the visiting peacekeepers.
“Despite your isolation, you are resourceful. Your art speaks of strength and creativity in the face of hardship that would overwhelm most of us.” Elizabeth Mayock, Community Liaison Assistant, UNMISS (Elizabeth Majok) said.
While Cithou residents may be highly self-reliant, more interaction and support from the outside world would appear to be welcome.
“May you not be here for the last time. We need you and others by our side,” Akon Lual told the outgoing Blue Helmets.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
