Ceasefire monitors call on activists to lead fight against GBV

By Awan Achiek

The Ceasefire & Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring & Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM) has called on members of civil society to lead the fight against gender-based violence (GBV).

Col. Edmund Agaba, Acting CTSAMVM Chief of Staff called on activists to be at the forefront in speaking out and reporting gender-based violence, raising awareness, peer education and prevention.

“I encourage all of us to continue championing the rights and voices of women and girls, ensuring that gender-based violence is addressed and that women are represented in decision-making spaces, particularly in the security sector,”  Agaba said during the conclusion of a three-day workshop held in Juba on Thursday.

He underscored the importance of advocating for the full inclusion of women in all aspects of peacebuilding and security reform.

“The gender provisions in the R-ARCSS are not mere aspirations but actionable commitments requiring consistent monitoring, reporting, and enforcement,” said Agaba.

For her part, Joyce Ayoub, Representative of the Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare stressed the need to promote participation in the peace process.

She urged civil society to identify any gaps that may hinder women’s full participation in governance.

“Your major roles as civil societies, your gender balance in inclusion, promoting the equal participation of men and women, and persons with disability inclusion in SSR process and security sector institutions,” said Ayoub.

Col. George Mabe Peter, Secretary of Joint Transitional Security Committee urged members of civil society to also advocate for the welfare of servicemen and women.

 “I am asking all of you to also consider the violation of the rights of all men and women in uniform into your consideration. Put our lives and our affairs on your table. All the rest of these security threats will come to an end,” said Mabe.