Aweil: Law Forum addresses challenges faced by Sudanese refugees

(radiotamazuj.org)

Government officials and partners in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State convened on Friday to discuss pressing issues concerning Sudanese refugees, South Sudanese returnees, traffic violations, crime statistics, and the security situation.

The monthly rule of law forum highlighted the need for urgent humanitarian assistance for Sudanese refugees and South Sudanese returnees residing in the Wedwil campsite, who have fled from the ravages of war. Additionally, the forum shed light on concerning matters such as 55 traffic violations and 2 fatalities recorded in May, attributable to poor road conditions and the involvement of underage individuals in driving activities.

Peter Diing Ngong, the Executive Director for the Wider Aid & Development Agency (WADA-South Sudan), emphasized that the rule of law forum is a routine event where government representatives and partners come together to address critical issues affecting local communities and strategize a way forward.

“In this month’s (June) rule of law forum, our aim is to update ourselves and the public on the security situation, crime statistics, challenges faced by the police, prisons service, and other departments involved in ensuring human security. Furthermore, we must address the emergency situation caused by the influx of Sudanese refugees and South Sudanese returnees arriving in the state via Kiir Adem and Majok Yinh Thiou Municipality,” stated Diing.

During the forum, Maria Amou, a member of the civil society in attendance, highlighted the importance of enforcing traffic regulations that prohibit underage individuals from operating vehicles and motorcycles.

This measure aims to reduce traffic accidents across the state. She explained, “This meeting is crucial, and the most valuable lesson I learned pertains to the traffic orders that forbid boys under 18 years of age from driving. I urge parents to engage in discussions with their children, emphasizing the importance of avoiding involvement in automobile-related activities.”

Joseph Madut, the Acting Director-General for the Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare, emphasized that the forum held at the Kush Hotel in Aweil focused on the ongoing crises faced by Sudanese refugees and South Sudanese returnees who recently arrived from Sudan. Child protection, gender-based violence, and sexual gender-based violence were among the key issues discussed, according to the ministry official.

“We have gathered here today (Friday) at the Kush Hotel as members of the rule of law forum. Our primary agenda was to discuss crimes, the current crises caused by the arrival of refugees in Aweil West County, child protection, and other issues affecting local communities. The Aweil President of the High Court chaired the meeting, and partners such as the prisons service and traffic police presented violations against traffic laws and other policies within their respective departments,” said Madut.