The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has trained 30 local leaders in Uror County of Jonglei state as part of its ongoing efforts to prevent violence and strengthen civilian protection in the region.
In a statement on Sunday, the mission states that Uror
continues to face insecurity driven by cattle raids, revenge killings, and the
mobilization of armed youth. At the same time, it has become a key destination
for displaced families returning to rebuild their lives, making efforts to
restore stability all the more urgent.
““The training enhanced understanding among key
stakeholders, including traditional chiefs, the armed forces, police, youth and
women about their roles and how to prevent conflict early, particularly through
dialogue, to avoid the situation deteriorating into a much bigger problem,”
said Uror County Commissioner James Gatkhor Gatluak.
The training brought together traditional chiefs, members of
organized forces, civil society actors, and displaced community
representatives.
It focused on understanding conflict drivers, strengthening
early warning systems, improving coordination between security forces and
community leaders, and building a safer environment for both returnees and host
populations.
UNMISS Protection, Transition and Reintegration Officer
Peter Wiseh emphasized the mission’s role in supporting national authorities.
“While it is the primary role of the Government of South
Sudan to provide security for its people, we are here to reinforce and enhance
those efforts through direct action as well as capacity building,” Wiseh said.
Civil society representative Nyaluol Chol also echoed the
need to protect civilians especially women from road ambushes and village
attacks.
“Women are the backbone of our families and have an
important role in engaging positively and effectively to protect them as well
as provide a more secure environment for our whole community. That is what we
are committed to,” Chol stated.
The local leaders are equipped through the training with
tools to detect and de-escalate threats early, with the aim of promoting peace
and stability in one of the country’s most volatile areas.
