WESTERN EQUATORIA – Despite repeated delays to the holding of South Sudan’s first democratic elections, efforts to prepare the country for this historic opportunity continue.

In Yambio, a four-day workshop to strengthen electoral security, with a particular focus on preventing violence against women in this context, has resulted in the establishment of a taskforce to implementing training across all 10 counties of Western Equatoria.

“This training broadened my perspective on elections, focusing on protecting rights and empowering citizens, especially women. I’ll share these lessons with my colleagues to better serve our communities,” said traffic officer, Sergeant Susan Gopo.

Supported by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), the workshop brought together 20 representatives from the South Sudan National Police Service, civil society organizations, and the High-Level Elections Commission in Western Equatoria State.

Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Cosmas underscored the practical impact of the knowledge acquired.

“We are better prepared to prevent violence, particularly against women, during elections. We will ensure that those who couldn’t attend receive the necessary education,” he emphasized.

The sessions discussed security best practices, roles within the electoral cycle, and strategies to prevent gender-based violence during polls.

“Now I know what to look for and how to respond effectively. We will take these critical tools back to our communities, leveraging our existing coordination offices in all ten counties,” stated Odeta Mima James, a civil society representative.

At the end of the training, Jane Kony, Head of the UNMISS Field Office in Yambio, emphasized the Mission's commitment to supporting democracy.

“As your peace partners, we are committed to providing essential technical support. However, it's important to recognize that a secure and inclusive electoral process is a collective responsibility, and your strong commitment today sets a powerful standard,” she said.

Simon Bakama Monday, from the High-Level Election Commission, recognized the timeliness of the guidance and confirmed its expansion to rural areas.

A key part of the training was a simulation exercise that focused on safeguarding electoral integrity and enhancing women's political participation.