A youth representative in Uror County, Jonglei State, has urged the state and national governments to conduct peaceful civilian disarmament. Nhial Pur cited the widespread availability of firearms as a major contributor to insecurity and violence in local communities. Speaking during a Citizens Talk forum facilitated by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), Pur emphasized that restricting young people's access to weapons would help address insecurity and promote lasting peace.
The forum brought together 80 participants from different walks of life across Jonglei State to discuss community challenges and identify practical solutions to ongoing conflicts. Participants highlighted that limited opportunities for young people have contributed to substance abuse and violence. The easy availability of firearms continues to threaten community safety. Nhial noted that this has led to a surge in insecurity and violence in the area.
Women representatives raised concerns about their limited participation in decision-making processes, particularly on issues affecting their safety and well-being. Mrs Biling Ruot said women's concerns, especially those relating to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), often go unaddressed, leaving survivors vulnerable and afraid to speak out. This has resulted in a culture of silence and fear among women in the community.
Participants also highlighted shortages of essential services, particularly access to clean water and healthcare, as factors contributing to community tensions. Community leader Chot Baak said repeated conflicts and inadequate infrastructure had left many communities struggling to access safe drinking water. Only 94 of their 300 boreholes remain functional, exacerbating the situation.
UNMISS Civil Affairs Officer Beverly Rae Mac-Ocloo said the forum was designed to bring communities together to identify practical solutions, strengthen relationships and rebuild trust among conflict-affected populations. The aim was to foster stronger relationships among communities affected by conflict and identify solutions to the challenges they face.
At the conclusion of the discussions, Mac-Ocloo said participants signed a community action plan outlining priority areas and practical steps for follow-up by communities and relevant stakeholders. The agreed priorities include improving security and access to basic services, expanding opportunities for young people, and ensuring the meaningful participation of women and persons with disabilities in decisions affecting their communities.
Uror County continues to face persistent security challenges, including cattle raids, child abductions, and revenge killings, alongside competition over scarce resources. These challenges are further compounded by food insecurity, water shortages, and limited opportunities for young people. The call for peaceful civilian disarmament is seen as a crucial step towards addressing these issues and promoting peace in the area.
Key points
- The youth representative emphasized that restricting young people's access to weapons would help address insecurity and promote lasting peace.
- Women representatives raised concerns about their limited participation in decision-making processes, particularly on issues affecting their safety and well-being.
- Participants signed a community action plan outlining priority areas and practical steps for follow-up by communities and relevant stakeholders.
