South Sudan has committed to ending child soldier recruitment and usage, recognizing the profound effects of armed conflict on children. Officials, including Esther Ikere and Gen. Ashhab Khamis Fahal, reaffirmed this commitment during the International Day against the Use of Child Soldiers, emphasizing support for released children and prevention measures. Advocacy from the UN and former child soldiers underscores the need for education and long-term solutions for affected youth.
South Sudan’s government has reaffirmed its commitment to end the recruitment and use of child soldiers, acknowledging the serious nature of the issue. Esther Ikere, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare, emphasized their dedication to supporting released children and addressing the underlying causes of child recruitment. These statements were made during the observance of the International Day against the Use of Child Soldiers, marked annually on February 12.
Ikere described the painful impact of conflict on children, stating that many have lost their childhood and education. The lasting scars of war have robbed these children of their fundamental rights and psychological well-being. She highlighted the need to recognize the ongoing harm and challenges children face due to armed conflict.
General Ashhab Khamis Fahal, a senior officer in South Sudan’s defense forces, assured efforts to protect children and enforce a comprehensive action plan to prevent child recruitment. He noted that commanders at all levels are responsible for ensuring that children are not enlisted in the military, reinforcing the government’s commitment to child protection.
Anita Kiki Gbeho from the UN urged the South Sudanese government to prioritize education, vocational training, and sustainable livelihoods for youth. She reiterated the UN’s commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at preventing grave violations of children’s rights and fostering a safe future free from the burdens of war.
Testimony from Allan Kudumoch Agon, a former child soldier, highlighted the personal toll of child recruitment. He shared his story of being taken at eight years old and called for an end to such practices, emphasizing the lasting psychological burdens that result from being a child soldier. His plea stressed the importance of allowing children to have their childhoods.
South Sudan’s government is committed to ending the recruitment of child soldiers, as emphasized by officials during the International Day against the Use of Child Soldiers. This commitment includes support for affected children and addressing root causes of recruitment. With input from the UN and personal testimonies from former child soldiers, there is an urgent call for a peaceful future for children in the region.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
