Yei Women Push for Inclusive Reconciliation

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – The chairperson of the Yei River County Women’s Association, Mama Alice Siyama Philip, has urged women leaders at both national and state levels to unite in promoting peace and reconciliation in South Sudan.

Speaking in Yei, she said that while several peace dialogues and training sessions have been held in the county, the majority of rural communities in the Payams are yet to see the results of these efforts. She called on women leaders to prioritise reaching grassroots communities with practical peace initiatives.

Mama Siyama explained that with support from reconciliation and peace organisations, the county women’s association has formed local peace groups. These groups spread messages of peace through radio talk shows, community gatherings, public events and door to door visits. She said the goal is to make peace visible and meaningful at the household and village levels:

“Peace is important because it brings development, but people in the villages are not experiencing the peace that is often spoken about. This is why collective efforts are needed to reach all levels.”

She also reminded women of their historical contribution to the liberation struggle that led to South Sudan’s independence, stressing that the same spirit should now be applied in the search for peace and stability across the country.

Mama Siyama called on women leaders to raise their voices not only in Yei but also nationwide, saying their involvement is crucial in ensuring that reconciliation efforts are successful.

She appealed to women and young people to reject violence and instead work together to promote peace in their homes, villages and at the national level. She added that unity within families and communities would create a foundation for lasting development:

“The government and its partners should support peace through development and services such as education, business opportunities, clean water, roads, hospitals and food security.”

Mama Siyama further proposed the organisation of a national women’s peace conference. She said such a gathering would allow grassroots women leaders to discuss challenges, share ideas and present a joint position paper to the government on the urgent need for reconciliation and unity.

Key Messages from Mama Siyama’s Appeal