The Minister of Interior Angelina Teny has appreciated development partners including the UN Women, United Nations Development Program and the United Nations Mission in South Sudan for supporting women in the security sector.

“Transformation of the security sector requires our commitment and political will as a country, government, and especially from those within the sector,” said Teny on Saturday at Nyakuron Cultural Center during celebration of Women in Uniform Day in Juba.

The event was organized by South Sudan Security Sector Women’s Network under the theme: “Women in Uniform Day: Building a Network, Advancing Peace in South Sudan.”

Pia Philip, the Undersecretary of the Ministry for Peacebuilding, said peace and security are closely tied to women’s empowerment and inclusion, adding that the presence of women in armed forces has contributed to the transformation of the security sector.

Regina Asso Lullo, Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare said that despite the progress in gender mainstreaming within the security sector, women remain underrepresented.

Anita Kiki Gbeho, the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary General who also doubles as Humanitarian and Resident coordinator, said the UN collaborates with South Sudan to promote peace, development and humanitarian assistance.

“Our commitment to gender equality is inspired by the dedication of South Sudanese women in uniform, and we thank our partners as we commemorate South Sudan’s three-year eligibility for the peacebuilding fund,” said Gbeho.

Nunu Kumba, the Speaker of the National Legislative Assembly, said that women in uniform will bring together women to plan and deliberate on issues that affect them, adding that women stood shoulder to shoulder with men to bring freedom to South Sudan.

“We must encourage women to pursue careers in the security sector and collectively recognize and support their challenges. By acknowledging their unique contributions and sacrifices, we can create a more supportive environment,” said Kumba.

The South Sudan Security Sector Women’s Network (SSSWN) was established in 2022 with support from the Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) administered by UN Women.

UNDP and UNMISS have played critical role in advancing gender equality and empowering women in the security sector.