26 March 2015 - UNMISS today trained about 40 new Rwandan peacekeepers in Torit on protection of children and armed conflict.

The course is part of efforts to increase awareness and highlight peacekeepers’ role in the protection of children in armed conflict and crisis situations, according to UNMISS Child Protection Unit.

“The idea is to help the troops [peacekeepers] understand the risks children face in conflict and how they can help the children when necessary,” said Child Protection Officer Amos Cassel.

The training also focused on the role of UN peacekeepers in monitoring and reporting violations against children during conflict.

"It is important for peacekeepers to be aware of the laws on children and armed conflict because it will help them to monitor and report violations,” Ms. Cassel said.

Rwandan peacekeepers who attended the training said it prepared them for their service with the United Nations.

“It is very essential for us because it will guide us throughout our time in South Sudan and even in other [UN] Missions that we might serve in in the future,” said Lieutenant Francis Murenzi.

Similar workshops will be conducted for all peacekeepers deployed in Eastern Equatoria State.