Participants at the high-level roundtable in Juba call for 35 percent women’s representation in governance and the establishment of local Peace Committees -Courtesy

Women leaders across Central Equatoria State have adopted a comprehensive resolution aimed at strengthening their pivotal role in conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and community cohesion.

The resolution was reached following a high-level roundtable held in Juba on March 30, 2026.

Organized by the State Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare, the forum brought together civil society actors, government officials, youth representatives, and members of the security sector.

Participants highlighted several critical barriers to stability in the state, including inter-communal violence, land disputes, and gender-based violence (GBV).

They also noted that harmful cultural practices and the persistent exclusion of women from decision-making processes continue to hinder progress.

In a decisive move to address these gaps, the leaders called for the strict implementation of at least 35 percent women’s representation in all governance, peace, and security structures at both state and county levels.

To ensure peace reaches the local level, the resolution proposes the establishment of Women Peace Committees across all administrative tiers. These committees will focus on grassroots conflict resolution and the enhancement of early warning systems.

By working closely with local authorities and security institutions, the women aim to create a mechanism that responds swiftly to emerging conflicts and cases of violence before they escalate.

Legal Protections and Support Services

The resolution places a heavy emphasis on justice and protection, calling for:

• Stronger Enforcement: Stricter application of laws against child marriage, domestic abuse, and GBV.

• Safe Houses: The establishment of centers providing medical, legal, and psychosocial support across the state.

• Reporting Hotline: The creation of a dedicated state-level GBV reporting hotline.

• Capacity Building: Specialized training for police, social workers, and customary court officials on human rights and protection.

The forum further emphasized that true security requires the involvement of the entire community, specifically advocating for the engagement of men and boys in efforts to combat violence.

The participants reaffirmed that sustainable peace in Central Equatoria can only be achieved through the full and meaningful participation of women.

They committed to using media platforms to amplify peace initiatives and called for increased funding to support women-led peacebuilding programs.