Military personnel from the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces have completed a three-day training aimed at curbing conflict-related sexual violence in the northern town of Bentiu, where shocking incidents of rape and sexual assault have been reported in recent weeks.

It’s been years since the pitter-patter of little feet have been heard at the SOS Children’s Village in Malakal town. There are no giggling children swinging on the playground. What used to be a place of joy now lies desolate.

At Juba 1 Girls’ Primary School, South Sudanese girls sing and dance, articulating their dreams and aspirations.

“We need peace, we need peace. I want to become a doctor,” one sings, drawing a chorus response from her peers.