Community leaders, government officials, women, youth, and security actors in Budi County, Eastern Equatoria, have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting children from violence and called for dialogue with neighboring communities to address cattle raiding and road ambushes. The commitment was made during UNMISS engagements in Chukudum, which focused on grave violations against children and supporting locally led conflict prevention efforts. While authorities reported no grave violations against children by organized forces or armed groups in Budi County, community leaders identified the recruitment of children during communal conflicts as a continuing concern. Budi County Commissioner Amin Julius Ben stated that the recruitment of children during communal conflicts for cattle raids needs addressing, and UNMISS Child Protection Officer Lucretia Pascari-Tomoianu reinforced the importance of continued efforts to safeguard children.
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