Women Activists in South Sudan Urge Immediate Peace Amid Growing Violence in Upper Nile State
By Denilson Deneki
In a poignant and united call for peace, women activists across South Sudan are demanding an end to escalating violence in Nasir County, Upper Nile State. The recent clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the SPLA-IO-backed White Army have prompted urgent pleas from these advocates for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
At a press conference held in the capital Juba on Monday, Grace John Kenyi—a well-known peace activist and human rights defender—voiced her grave concerns about the conflict that reignited on February 14, 2025. “We, the women of South Sudan, are deeply concerned and strongly condemn the escalating violence in our country, especially the recent clashes in Nasir,” she stated, calling for dialogue as the sole path to resolution.
Grace emphasized the need for all signatories of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) to step back from confrontation and embrace peaceful negotiations. She pointed out that a successful peace process relies on the unification and deployment of forces to maintain security and promote lasting stability across the nation.
The activists extended their appeal beyond the immediate conflict, urging the international community to initiate an independent investigation into the recent violence. “We implore the international community to support efforts to conduct an independent investigation into the violence and hold accountable those responsible for these atrocities,” Grace implored.
In their assessment, the women denounced the rampant misuse of social media, highlighting its detrimental role in spreading hate speech and misinformation that inflates tensions within communities. They specifically addressed the White Army, a Nuer youth militia, urging its leaders to forsake violence, accept a ceasefire, and engage in peaceful dialogue with the government and local leaders.
Fellow activist Lilian Sukeji Micheal reinforced this message, voicing the unwavering commitment of women across South Sudan to advocate for peace. The collective appeal underscores a broader demand for de-escalation, accountability, and a return to dialogue, reinforcing the fragility of the nation’s ongoing peace process.
As violence escalates in Upper Nile State, the powerful voices of South Sudanese women stand as a beacon of hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, emphasizing that the path forward lies in dialogue, unity, and understanding.
