TGoNU Representative

Mr Lansana Wonneh, The Deputy Country Representative of UN WOMEN-South Sudan

Ms. Amer Deng- the Representative of Women’s Bloc of South Sudan,

Distinguished guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen;

 Good morning!

Let me start by thanking UN Women and Women’s Bloc of South Sudan for partnering with JMEC in convening this very important workshop on the The High Level Revitalization Forum on the Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict Resolution in South Sudan.  Information about the content and procedures of the process is key to enabling women’s effective participation.

I would like to congratulate IGAD and the Special Envoy for South South, Dr.Ismail Wais for ensuring that women were consulted in the pre forum stage of the HLRF process and for the increased number of accredited women and civil society delegates. This is in keeping with South Sudan’s gender policies as well as regional and international standards on gender inclusion in peace processes.  JMEC remains committed to promoting women’s participation in peace-building and conflict resolution processes and joins UN Women and Women’s Organizations across South Sudan in pressing for progress in this effort and in our monitoring mandate.

As you are aware, the High Level Revitalization Forum commenced in Addis Ababa in December 2017. During the first phase of the Forum, the parties committed themselves to end the fighting. Consequently, all parties signed an Agreement on the Cessation of Hostilities, Protection of Civilians and Humanitarian Access (CoHA), signed on 21st December 2017. This was an important first step in laying the foundation for revitalisation of the Peace Agreement.

 The Women’s Bloc and representatives of Civil Society provided a critical voice during the negotiations on the CoHA and therefore must devise ways of remaining engaged to monitor its implementation. I am informed that part of your deliberations at this workshop will focus on the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement and its implementation.

It is my hope, and that of JMEC’s that this workshop will not only equip you with the information you need but also help strengthen your role in contributing to the HLRF’s intended outcome of a revitalized Peace Agreement as well as robust and effective implementation with the ultimate goal of sustainable peace fro South Sudan. 

 I wish you fruitful deliberations.

 Thank you very much.