Women in Uniform Day 2025: Agents of Peace and Progress

The South Sudan Security Sector Women's Network (SSSWN), in partnership with Hope Africa South Sudan, the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator, UN Women, UNDP, UNESCO, and UNMISS, organized a celebration marking Women in Uniform Day 2025. Funded by the United Nations Secretary-General's Peacebuilding Fund (PBF), the event marked the third anniversary of the South Sudan Security Sector Women's Network and highlighted the critical contributions of women serving in the country's security sector.

Under the theme "Women in Uniform: Agents of Peace and Progress," the celebration brought together hundreds of women in uniform from across South Sudan's security institutions, including the national police, military, prison services, wildlife services, fire brigade, and civil defense services.

The day commenced with a symbolic march of unity by women in uniform, demonstrating solidarity and commitment to peace and security in South Sudan. The march proceeded from Buluk police headquarters to Juba Freedom Hall for the main celebration, featuring heartfelt stories, singing, dancing and speeches by government officials, UN representatives, and security sector leaders. The celebration also held panel discussions on women's leadership in security, testimonials from network members, and cultural performances highlighting the diversity and strength of South Sudan's women in uniform.

The South Sudan Security Sector Women's Network, established in 2022 with support from the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund, now engages over 500 women across police, military, prisons, wildlife, and civil defense services in leadership development, trauma healing, and literacy training. In Juba, Aweil, and Malakal, 504 women have enrolled in literacy classes, addressing years of educational exclusion due to conflict.

Mohamed Abchir, UNDP Resident Representative and Acting Resident Coordinator for the UN in South Sudan, reaffirmed the UN's continued commitment to supporting women's empowerment in South Sudan's security sector. 

"To the courageous women in uniform who serve with dedication and dignity, your leadership lights the way. Your work directly advances SDG 5 by promoting women's participation in traditionally male-dominated fields. On behalf of the United Nations family in South Sudan, I reaffirm our commitment to supporting these efforts."

The event aligned with UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, which emphasizes the importance of women's participation in peace processes and security sector reform. 

"Our main goal is ensuring that women aren't left behind when it comes to leadership and decision-making in South Sudan. We believe in 'teach one, teach a nation' – when we empower one woman, the impact ripples throughout the entire community. As we march forward, the girls along the way look up to us and get inspired to one day be women in uniform." – Lt. Col. Harriette Fouzia.

“We must train the next generation about the importance of inclusion - that without women, the security sector would be at stake. When women in uniform are empowered to lead, we all become stronger.”- Hon. Yar Telar, Deputy Chairperson for Women Parliamentary Caucus.

"Historical evidence demonstrates that peace agreements achieve greater sustainability when women participate in their development, and their likelihood of successful implementation increases significantly," stated the Deputy Head of the European Union Delegation to South Sudan. "Therefore, the inclusion of women represents a strategic investment in long-term peace and stability."

The Peacebuilding Fund has invested in initiatives that promote gender equality and women's participation in peace processes in South Sudan since 2011.

Media Contact: Poni Allen, United Nations Resident Coordinator's Office, poni.allen@un.org, 0928006318

Note to editors: High-resolution photos and additional resources are available upon request. Interviews with network members and UN officials can be arranged through the media contact above.