EASTERN EQUATORIA – Just like in other parts of South Sudan, women and girls in Nimule run an alarmingly high risk of being subjected to sexual or other forms of gender-based violence. To make matters worse, many perpetrators of such heinous crimes are never held accountable.

“We are ware of several cases of sexual gender-based violence here. For example, three married women have been raped and killed by their husbands, who are yet to arrested or held to account in any way,” said Rebecca Chinyua, a woman leader in town.  

Unfortunately, she adds, the ones who are expected to keep the population safe are sometimes directly involved in the atrocities.

“At least three under-aged girls have been raped by men in uniform, making these incidents hard to handle for the police. Their cases are still pending at the Special Protection Unit, because there is nobody here who has the courage and competence to advocate for the rights of these children”.

Ms. Chinyua made these revelations at an event organized by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) to raise awareness on the rights of women and girls and how to protect them, including by reporting incidents where they have been violated.

While other objectives of inviting residents to the gathering were to encourage the return of people who once fled violence in the area and to increase civic and political space ahead of elections scheduled for 2026, the focus was firmly on human rights.

“I urge all of you to be defenders of the rights of your fellow citizens, not least to end or at least reduce violence against women and children in our communities,” said Ochen Philip, a civil rights activist in Nimule as he addressed chiefs, youth, women and government officials attending the event.

The border town nature of Nimule, which sits right next to Uganda, means that it is home to an ethnic and cultural mix where practices that are common in one community may be frowned upon, or worse, by residents of another.

“And yet, town council authorities have the responsibility to respect and promote human rights so that they can be enjoyed by everyone. If they become aware of violations, particularly when perpetrated by uniformed personnel supposed to protect civilians, they need to act,” affirmed Anthony Nwapa, a Human Rights Officer serving with the peacekeeping mission.

Mr. Nwapa, having taken note of the previously unknown cases of sexual violence against women and girls in and around Nimule, also recommended further efforts to raise awareness on human rights challenges and what can be done to improve the situation.