Cithou, a small village 30 kilometers from Kuajok, is aptly named “the hidden place.” Remoted by muddy roads attributable to devastating floods, it’s a spot that few have seen or heard of.
That, nonetheless, is ready to alter, following a primary ever go to by peacekeepers serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
Unsurprisingly, their journey into the unknown, undertaken to convey the worldwide 16 Days of Activism marketing campaign in opposition to gender-based violence and a message of solidarity to Cithou, was a troublesome one, via tough and at instances swampy terrain. However they made it.
Uniformed and civilian peacekeeping workers have been welcomed with open arms and residents desirous to share their tales.
“I need to admit that we regularly really feel forgotten,” stated Akon Lual, a mom of 5. “Our youngsters don’t go to high school. We began making bricks to construct one, however we couldn’t end it. Starvation and insecurity maintain us again daily.”
It’s not solely a college that’s lacking in Cithou, the place healthcare services and police are additionally conspicuous by their absence. Come illnesses or snake bites – each frequent in the course of the wet season – and other people residing listed here are left to fend for themselves.
“For us, flooding will not be an inconvenience, it’s life-threatening. Then again, if we solely had the mandatory instruments and a little bit of assist, rains might flip into alternatives for farming,” Paramount Chief Deng Mayom contemplated.
Other than the evident lack of infrastructure and agricultural tools, and the meals insecurity that tends to observe in its wake, perpetrators of gender-based violence and different crimes can sometimes relaxation assured that they received’t be held accountable.
“With out police or entry to justice, impunity reigns. It implies that our ladies and kids don’t really feel as protected as they need to and should do,” stated Deng, the Paramount Chief.
Cithou’s ladies don’t, nonetheless, should look far into historical past to seek out inspiration and hope for extra influential roles of their group.
“There are highly effective examples of girls in management positions in South Sudan, even domestically. Simply consider Nyandeng Malek, who in 2010 turned the primary feminine Governor of Warrap State. You’ll want to hold pushing for change, since you, too, are leaders in your individual proper,” stated Ajok Angok, an UNMISS Civil Affairs Officer.
And utilizing the little sources they’ve, ladies in Cithou strive arduous by utilizing their important handicraft abilities to complement their meager livelihoods. The show of vibrant baskets, intricate beaded jewellery and different handmade ornaments left the visiting peacekeepers impressed.
“Regardless of your isolation, you’re extremely resourceful. Your artwork speaks of power and creativity within the face of hardship that will have left most of us overwhelmed,” stated Elizabeth Majok, an UNMISS Neighborhood Liaison Assistant.
Robust because the self-reliant residents of Cithou could also be, extra interplay with and assist from the skin world would seemingly be welcome.
“Might your go to right here not be your final one. We’d like you and others to be there for us,” Akon Lual advised the departing Blue Helmets.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).