The UNMISS Human Rights Division in Western Equatoria State, in partnership with a local organization, Hold the Child, on Saturday completed a three-day training for 40 members of the state parliament and staff of the state human rights commission in Yambio.
The training focused on human rights principles, good governance, legislative duties, transitional justice, gender equality, and the oversight role of lawmakers in protecting citizens’ rights.
The deputy speaker of the assembly, Simon Bandukuwe, praised UNMISS and Hold the Child for enhancing the capacity of lawmakers, saying the training has deepened their understanding of the lawmaking processes, accountability mechanisms, and the responsibility of parliament to safeguard human rights in the state.
“We have learned a lot about human rights, oversight functions, transitional justice, gender equality, and inclusive governance,” he said. “This training strengthens our role in protecting the rights of our people.”
Meanwhile, Sonny Onyegbula, the team leader of the UNMISS Human Rights Division in Yambio, said the initiative aimed at equipping lawmakers with the skills necessary to uphold the rule of law and respond to violations.
“Western Equatoria has experienced conflict in areas such as Tambura, Nagero, and Mundri since 2021,” he said. “Strengthening the capacity of the assembly and the Human Rights Commission will help them investigate abuses, improve oversight, and ensure effective governance.”
For his part, Hold the Child’s Human Rights and Advocacy Officer, Adam Masco Joseph, said the training seeks to remind duty bearers of their constitutional obligations.
“Our mission is to promote respect for human rights and the rule of law,” he stated. “We have trained legislators in Central Equatoria and Western Bahr el Ghazal under FCDO support, and now we are empowering lawmakers, prison officers, and police officers in Western Equatoria.”
On her part, Julia John Sindani, the chairperson of the assembly’s Human Rights Committee, said the training has broadened members’ knowledge on the rights of women, men, and girls.
“Every person in Western Equatoria has rights, and as parliamentarians we must protect them,” she said.
The participants appreciated the initiative, saying it will improve service delivery, strengthen accountability, and promote democratic governance in the state.