Women in Uniform Day 2025: Agents of Peace and Progress

July 29, 2025
Panel discussion featuring six individuals in military and police uniforms on a stage.

South Sudan Women in Security Sector Chairs; Police, Army, Prisons, Fire brigade and Wildlife

UNDP/Sarah Abraham

Juba, South Sudan – July 28, 2025 – The South Sudan Security Sector Women's Network (SSSWN), in partnership with Hope Africa South Sudan, 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.

Dr. 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.
 

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