9 November 2014 - Sexual exploitation and abuse is “an abominable act” which is punishable by law and should not be tolerated, UNMISS Jonglei State Coordinator Hazel de Wet stressed in the state capital Bor today.

Ms. Hazel de Wet was speaking at the end of a series of events held in the state as part of a nationwide campaign to increase awareness of and prevent sexual exploitation and abuse in South Sudan.

UNMISS and other partners organized the events in Bor town and in the Protection of Civilians site at the mission’s base under the theme, “Break the Silence, Speak Up!”

Activities in both places included drama and poetry presentations, cultural dances and musical performances by renowned South Sudanese singer Betty Tony.

“I am glad you have all enjoyed the activities marking this campaign but let us not forget the most important message which is (to say) no to sexual exploitation and abuse as well as domestic violence,” said Ms. de Wet.

Speaking at the Protection of Civilians site, the State Coordinator urged the entire community to be aware of the effects of sexual exploitation and abuse. She noted that several cases had been reported inside the protection site.

“We have had several cases on domestic violence and harassments,” she said. “We will not tolerate such anymore. It is time to break the silence and speak out – Matur Askut!”

Julia Woart, a UN Volunteer from Liberia working as a generator mechanic at the mission’s compound, shared her experience as a young girl during the civil war in her country.

Stressing the importance of education, Ms. Woart discouraged domestic violence, early or forced marriage as well as sexual exploitation and abuse.

“It is very important to be educated especially for girls,” she said. “My grandmother gave me all the encouragement after the civil war in my country to ensure I am educated and today, I am a generator mechanic in Bor doing a job people thought is only for men.”