South Sudan: “Our Better Lives Do Not Lie In Machine Guns” – Women Call For Peace In Bor

Oct 29, 2019 | Mach Samuel, United Nations Missions in South Sudan
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“Our better lives do not lie in machine guns.”

Those were the words of Rachael Amuor Pach, the Jonglei Minister for Gender, Child and Social Welfare, at the conclusion of a special women’s forum for reconciliation and peace in Bor, hosted by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan.

The Minister gave a passionate speech for peace to 40 women who gathered together at the forum from across Greater Jonglei, including participants who are currently seeking sanctuary at the UN Protection of Civilians (POC) site in Bor.

“The reason for us being here today is to let go of what has already happened,” said the Minister. “This time we are the ones who will lead our country where we want it to go because we are the victims.”

In the wake of a five-year civil war and continuing intercommunal violence, South Sudanese are embracing a revitalized peace agreement that may pave the way for peace and prosperity.

The Deputy Chair of the Bor POC, Anna Joseph Chan, expressed concern that women are being denied the opportunity to fully participate in the peace process.  

Even though women can play key roles in conflict management, peace and reconciliation, they are often excluded from the decision-making processes and their potential as agents of peace are rarely fulfilled, she said.