Human Rights and Child Protection

South Sudan has made progress in its efforts to eliminate the recruitment of child soldiers. The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reports that a number of children have been released by the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF).

Official Commitment

The official handover ceremony was attended by Brigadier Akech Maker, Commander of SSPDF Brigade 16 in Yambio, Western Equatoria. He stated, “We, in the SSPDF, will not allow the recruitment of children into the army. If a child shows interest, we will guide them towards education instead.”

Verification and Monitoring

Officials from the Disarmament, Demobilisation, and Reintegration (DDR) program have conducted registration and verification processes to facilitate the reintegration of these children into civilian life. Continuous monitoring will ensure that no children return to combat roles.

Hellen Ernasio, Chairperson of DDR in Western Equatoria, emphasized the importance of maintaining an army free from child recruitment and other violations against child rights.

Support Services for Transition

At a temporary center, social workers and UNICEF staff provide the children with psychological services, learning materials, and personalized guidance to support their transition to civilian life. Clement Gbatanawo from the UNICEF office in Yambio stated that psychosocial support and needs assessments for formal learning or skills training will be provided.

Continued Oversight

Rita Bampo, a Child Protection Officer at the UNMISS Yambio Field Office, confirmed that UNMISS will continue to monitor the reintegration process to ensure its success and prevent any re-recruitment into armed groups. All parties involved in the conflict are urged to release any children within their command.

According to UNICEF, there are approximately 19,000 child soldiers in South Sudan. The goal is to end their involvement in armed conflicts.