As South Sudan faces renewed political instability and the looming threat of conflict, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) observed the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers on Thursday with a poignant ceremony in the capital, Juba.
The event, marked by emotional tributes and calls for lasting peace, was headlined by a heartfelt poem from a 10-year-old schoolgirl, which deeply moved attendees and highlighted the urgency of peace for the country’s future generations.
A Child’s Call for Peace Moves a Nation
Among the dignitaries, peacekeepers, government officials, and civil society members gathered for the commemorative event, it was the voice of Aluel Mochnom Wuor, a primary school student, that resonated most deeply. Representing the aspirations of children across South Sudan, Aluel recited a powerful poem that called on leaders and the international community to end the cycles of violence that have plagued the country for years.
In her impassioned appeal, she said:
“To friends afar, peacekeepers across the world who come to help, to heal, to save lives, your aid is kind, your efforts are true. Help us, help the nation, help children build something brand new.
Our hearts reach out to build a country where we live in peace. Please leaders, take a stand, take a stand against war. Let love and kindness light their way and bring a bright, peaceful day.
I am the voice. I am the lawful one. I love my country, South Sudan.”
Her touching words brought many in the audience to tears and underscored the theme of this year’s commemoration: “Peace Begins With Me”—a call for individual responsibility and collective action toward lasting peace.
UN and Government Reaffirm Commitment to Peace
The ceremony served as a reminder of the vital role played by more than 18,000 UN peacekeepers—both military and civilian—who continue to serve under difficult and often dangerous conditions to support peace and security in South Sudan. The mission, established in 2011 following the country’s independence, has since been central to efforts to stabilize the nation, protect civilians, and assist in the implementation of peace agreements.
UNMISS Head and Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Nicholas Haysom, praised the bravery and dedication of peacekeepers and emphasized the importance of community collaboration to build sustainable peace.
“Peace is not just the absence of conflict; it is the presence of justice, of security, of opportunity. Our peacekeepers are here not only to maintain calm but to partner with the people of South Sudan to shape a future where peace is permanent,” Haysom said.
A representative from the Government of South Sudan also addressed the gathering, expressing gratitude to the UN mission for its continued presence and reaffirming the administration’s commitment to national unity and peaceful development.
“We must all take responsibility for peace,” the official stated. “The government remains committed to working with all partners—regional and international—to ensure that the peace process moves forward and that the dreams of children like Aluel are not lost.”
Honoring the Fallen and the Brave
The day’s events included a solemn wreath-laying ceremony to honor the fallen peacekeepers who lost their lives while serving in South Sudan. UN flags were lowered to half-mast in memory of those who paid the ultimate price in their mission to protect civilians and support peacebuilding.
In an emotional moment, a new memorial plaque was unveiled in the UNMISS compound in Juba, recognizing the courage and sacrifice of peacekeepers who have served in the country since its independence. The memorial stands as a permanent tribute to those who stood on the front lines of conflict in defense of peace and humanity.
Major General Maina Wanjiku, the Force Commander of UNMISS, addressed the gathering:
“Many of our comrades laid down their lives far from home, in the service of a better South Sudan. We honor them by continuing their work—with courage, compassion, and a deep commitment to protecting the vulnerable.”
Grassroots Hope Amid National Uncertainty
The celebration took place against a backdrop of growing concerns about South Sudan’s political and security situation. With transitional elections approaching and the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement still under strain, analysts warn that failure to address unresolved issues could tip the country back into large-scale violence.
UN officials and humanitarian agencies have recently expressed alarm over rising intercommunal violence, political tensions, and humanitarian needs, as millions remain displaced and dependent on aid.
Still, the Peacekeepers Day event was a rare moment of unity and hope. Grassroots movements, youth groups, and civil society organizations continue to play a critical role in advocating for reconciliation, dialogue, and peace education. For many in attendance, the poem by young Aluel symbolized the resilience and determination of South Sudan’s youth to break the cycle of war.
“Her voice carried more power than any speech,” said Grace Kiden, a youth activist from Juba. “She reminded us why we must never stop fighting for peace—not with weapons, but with words, with action, and with unity.”
UNMISS Pledges Continued Support
The event closed with a statement from peacekeepers across South Sudan, expressing gratitude to the communities they serve and pledging to stand by them in the journey toward peace.
“Your support keeps us going,” the joint message read. “We are here because we believe in your right to live free from fear, to dream without limits, and to see your children grow up in a land of peace. We walk beside you, today and always.”
As South Sudan marks another Peacekeepers Day amid uncertainty and fragile hope, one thing remains clear: the call for peace is not just diplomatic or political—it is deeply human. And in the words of a brave young girl, “Peace begins with me.”
