5 August 2014 - To promote the role of women in peace and development, UNMISS today organized a one-day forum for women in the Western Equatoria State capital Yambio.

Drawn from civil society as well as national and international non-governmental organizations, some 50 women took part in the forum held under the theme, “Protect and promote women and girls for peace and development in Western Equatoria”.

“Conflict affects women and children most,” said UNMISS Gender Affairs Officer Mary Joshua. “(However), although women are the most vulnerable during conflict, they have a role to play to bring and build peace in our communities.”

Mary Sungu, Chairperson of the Gender Affairs Committee in the State Legislative Assembly urged participants to pay attention and understand their role in ongoing peace dialogues in the country.

“I want you to know that this country will not go anywhere without your participation,” said Ms. Sungu. “If peace does not (return) … women will still be the victims of war.”

UNMISS officials also presented to participants the mission’s new mandate, which focuses on four core areas -- protecting civilians, creating conditions for delivery of humanitarian assistance, human rights and support for the Cessation of Hostilities agreement.