South Sudan has pledged to end the use of child soldiers, promising to protect children from armed groups. Officials from the Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare announced this commitment on February 18, aligning with the International Day Against the Use of Child Soldiers. They stress the need to prevent recruitment and support former child soldiers, while the UN emphasizes the importance of education to give youth better opportunities.
South Sudan has made a formal commitment to cease the recruitment of child soldiers, affirming that no children shall be coerced into joining armed factions. This declaration was made on February 18, coinciding with the International Day Against the Use of Child Soldiers, also recognized as Red Hand Day. Esther Ikere, a prominent official from the Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare, emphasized the gravity of this issue and the government’s dedication to safeguarding children.
Ikere elaborated on the proactive measures the government is undertaking to prevent child recruitment, assist those who have been conscripted, and address the underlying causes that lead to this recruitment. She highlighted the sad reality that children are being deprived of their innocence, education, and fundamental rights due to the burdens of conflict. “Children who should be in classrooms, playing, and dreaming of their futures have instead been forced to bear the burdens of war.” – Esther Ikere.
The nation has endured prolonged periods of violence, which have seen numerous children compelled to fight, whether through abduction or because other options were unavailable. The resulting impacts have been profound, causing both physical and emotional suffering while irrevocably stealing childhoods. General Ashhab Khamis Fahal from South Sudan’s army reiterated the ban on child recruitment, stating military leaders are now informed about their responsibilities in safeguarding the welfare of children within their ranks.
The United Nations has called for a renewed focus on providing education and vocational training to youth in South Sudan, advocating for opportunities that would prevent children from being drawn into warfare. Anita Kiki Gbeho, the UN’s deputy representative in South Sudan, expressed the UN’s commitment to collaborate with the government in halting child recruitment. “We are all working towards the same objective, to build a future where no child is forced to bear the burden of armed conflict,” Gbeho said.
Allan Kudumoch Agon, a former child soldier, recounted his harrowing experiences during a public event, where he spoke about being abducted from his home at the young age of eight and forced into combat. His powerful testimony underscored the enduring trauma faced by former child soldiers: “Being a child soldier left me with disgust and burdens that may last forever.” – Allan Kudumoch Agon. He appealed for a collective effort to ensure children retain their childhood and are away from the horrors of war.
In light of the dire circumstances facing children in South Sudan, the government, along with the United Nations and various organizations, is committed to ensuring that no child is again subjected to the atrocities of armed conflict.
The commitment of South Sudan to eradicate the use of child soldiers represents a crucial step toward protecting the rights and futures of its youth. The government’s acknowledgement of the issue, coupled with the support of the United Nations and testimonies from former child soldiers, emphasizes the urgent need for collective action. A focus on education and the prevention of child recruitment will be vital in building a more hopeful future for the children of South Sudan.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
