By James Innocent
The Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace and Security has reaffirmed its commitment to preventing the recruitment and use of children in armed violence following a four-day training held in Yei River County, Central Equatoria State.
The training, conducted in partnership with Dallaire Institute children peace security that brought together more than 30 representatives from women-led organizations, media groups, and civil society organizations.
The initiative aimed to strengthen local capacity to protect children and promote long-term peacebuilding in communities affected by conflict.
Focus on Prevention and Protection
During the launch of the Project Manager Clemence Langa emphasized that preventing child recruitment requires coordinated efforts from families, community leaders, civil society, and government institutions.
“Our main objective is to equip women-led organizations and community stakeholders with accurate information and practical tools to prevent the recruitment of children into armed groups,” Langa said.
He urged local actors to ensure that children’s rights are respected and protected from exploitation, particularly during periods of instability.
The institute’s mission—to prevent the recruitment and use of children in armed violence and transform cycles of violence—was central to the discussions. Its broader vision promotes a world where children are at the heart of peace and security efforts.
Participants Pledge Community Action
Participants described the training as timely and impactful.
Keji Esther, a representative of a local civil society group, said the sessions provided valuable knowledge that she intends to share within her community.
“I am very happy to receive this training,” she said. “We will go back and pass the right message to our communities so that children are not recruited into armed forces during times of violence.”
Another participant, Alex, noted that the group covered more than 12 modules related to child protection, including community awareness strategies and legal frameworks surrounding children’s rights. He encouraged fellow trainees to apply the lessons learned and advocate for the protection of children across South Sudan.
The Law Enforcement Calls for Collective Responsibility,Speaking at the conclusion of the training, Yei River County Police Inspector Ali Abdullah Tiff called on parents and authorities to uphold laws that prohibit the recruitment of children into armed forces.
“Children should not be involved in political or military activities,” he said, stressing that safeguarding minors is a shared responsibility between families and the government.
Building Long-Term Peace
The Dallaire Institute works globally with governments, security forces, and communities to strengthen child protection systems through research, advocacy, and training. By focusing on prevention and accountability, the organization seeks to address the root causes of child recruitment and help break cycles of violence.
The four-day event concluded with a renewed call for collective action to end the use of children in armed conflict and to promote a culture where children grow up in safe and supportive environments.
As conflict continues to affect vulnerable populations, stakeholders in Yei expressed hope that sustained collaboration between civil society, security actors, and international partners will contribute to lasting peace and the protection of future generations.