South Sudanese women, represented by activist Grace John Kenyi, voiced alarm over escalating violence and the risk of collapse of the 2018 peace agreement. They called for immediate action from stakeholders, condemned hate speech, and appealed for support from international entities to maintain peace and stability in the nation.
A group of South Sudanese women has expressed deep concern regarding the escalating situation in their country, warning that the 2018 peace agreement and the Tumaini Initiative are at significant risk of collapse. During a press conference in Juba, Grace John Kenyi, a noted peace activist and human rights defender, highlighted the increasing violence throughout the nation, 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 tragic loss of a crew member and offered sympathies to families mourning their loved ones due to the ongoing conflict. “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, which are both at serious risk amidst rising instability,” Kenyi stated, emphasizing the urgency to protect the future of the youth in the country.
United in their call to action, the women urged stakeholders to take immediate measures to resolve the current conflict and address the deteriorating economic conditions, which disproportionately impact vulnerable citizens. Additionally, they denounced the misuse of social media to spread hate speech and misinformation, as such activities threaten to further divide the community.
Acknowledging the efforts of the government in maintaining peace, the activists expressed appreciation for citizens who uphold humanity and advocate for peaceful resolutions. They appealed to signatories of the R-ARCSS for dialogue to resolve tensions and urged the international community to support independent investigations into violence and hold those accountable.
The women called for a coordinated response from several ministries to prioritize dialogue and enforce the rule of law while expediting the implementation of peace agreements. They also stressed the importance of cooperation from various organizations, including the African Union and IGAD, to uphold ceasefire agreements and work towards ending conflict in South Sudan.
In their appeal to the diplomatic missions in South Sudan, the women requested support for peace initiatives, accountability, and assistance for those affected by conflict. They urged the White Army to cease violence and engage in peaceful dialogue. Activist Lilian Sukeji Micheal announced plans to reach out to women in high governmental positions to foster peace initiatives effectively.
The pressing concerns of South Sudanese women regarding the worsening humanitarian and political situation underscore the critical need for immediate action to protect peace agreements and advance stability in the country. Their collective appeals emphasize the importance of dialogue and collaboration among various stakeholders, as well as the need for international support in fostering accountability and peace. The commitment to engage women leaders at the governmental level signifies a proactive approach towards instilling peace and resolving ongoing conflicts.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
