Yei Leaders Commit to Tackling Gender Based Violence and Gang Activity

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – A three day training workshop on gender based violence (GBV) has concluded in Yei River County, bringing together more than 70 local chiefs, security officials, civil society actors and media representatives to develop strategies for addressing rising GBV and gang related violence in the area.

The training, which ended on Thursday, was organised by Voice of Change South Sudan, a civil society group working to improve gender rights and community safety. The sessions focused on practical ways to prevent and respond to GBV, with a particular focus on strengthening the role of community leaders and law enforcement agencies.

According to Clement Yope, Programme Officer at Voice of Change, the training aimed to empower local stakeholders with the tools needed to handle GBV cases professionally and sensitively.

“We are confident that the participants will apply what they have learned,” he said, adding that the introduction of mobile courts would significantly improve access to justice for survivors.

Yei River County Commissioner Emmanuel Taban Seme welcomed the initiative, calling it a critical step toward restoring peace and harmony. He urged parents and guardians to take responsibility for guiding young people, especially in the face of ongoing insecurity and economic pressures. He also reiterated the county’s commitment to promoting community led solutions to social challenges.

Concerns over the rise in gang related violence were a recurring theme during the training. Raymond Duduka, Deputy Speaker of the Yei Youth Association and a participant in the training, said the sessions gave young leaders the tools to act as ambassadors against GBV and gang influence.

“We already know the hotspots where gangs operate,” he said.

Duduka called for partners and agencies to include gang members in future programmes focused on rehabilitation rather than punishment.

Participants identified the growing number of gangs as a major concern. Joseph, Executive Chief of Jonsuk Boma, revealed that over 25 gang groups are now believed to be active within Yei. He also criticised the resolution of serious cases within police stations without due legal process.

“Justice should be served in court, not in custody,” he said.

Another community leader, Chief Joseph Sebit, appealed for greater logistical support to the police. He stressed the need for mobility and resources to enable officers to respond effectively to incidents of violence.

Police also shared their challenges during the workshop. Eva Marco, from the police gender desk, expressed appreciation to Voice of Change for supporting efforts to reduce GBV. She noted a drop in the number of GBV cases being reported, not due to a decrease in incidents, but rather due to poor mobility and a lack of equipment for follow up.

“Without proper logistics, we cannot reach victims or collect proper evidence,” she explained.

The training concluded with participants agreeing to work together to raise awareness, support victims and push for improved legal and institutional responses.

Many also called for sustained partnerships between civil society, government and international donors to ensure the fight against GBV and gang crime remains a priority.