Regarded as one of the most violent nations in the world, South Sudan has made in roads in combatting the fight against gender-based violence.

Junaid Kharsany spoke with Associate Public Information Officer for the UN, Zeenit Abdul about the steps taken to help curb this worldwide problem.

For decades South Sudan has been embroiled in conflict, and rape is a weapon of war according to Abdul.

The UN representative for sexual violence in conflict, Pramila Patten  plays an important role in the region. She has been encouraged by recent steps taken by the Sudanese military to bring perpetrators to justice which has cemented government’s commitment to zero tolerance.

This resulted in 13 rape convictions of members from the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces

Military cases were held in South Sudan and the convictions that took place last month saw 26 soldiers sentenced for killing, looting and other crimes committed both last year and in 2020.

Two soldiers have also been arrested recently for gang rape and the rape of under aged girls, one of which was from the South Sudan National Police Service.

Abdul says these verdicts sends a strong message to perpetrators not only about the consequences but also reaffirms governments commitment to a zero-tolerance policy for conflict related sexual violence.

The UN representative has also praised the victims of these crimes for being courageous enough to seek justice. This is an affirmation for future and past victims that justice will be served!

By Naadiya Adams