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Children from a key armed group in Sudan's conflict-torn Darfur region will soon be laying down jobs as combatants, bodyguards, porters and messengers to pick up their former lives.
An agreement reached between Minni Minawi's faction of the Sudan Liberation Movement/Army (SLM/A/MM) and UNICEF commits the rebel group to locate children under the age of 18 among its forces within a month and then verify them jointly with the UN.
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Ted Chaiban (left) and Minni Minawi at signing of child agreement
"Today, we are thankful that for many children in Darfur the process of rebuilding their lives can begin," UNICEF Representative in Sudan Ted Chaiban at the formal signing of the accord on 11 June. Mr. Chaiban and SLM/A/MM Chairman Minni Minawi signed the agreement, with Acting Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General Oluseyi Bajulaiye acting as a witness.
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Once the children have been handed over, UNICEF will support the government and local as well as international NGOs in tracing their families and reintegrating them into the community. The agency will also assist with training SLA/MM field commanders on international child rights and protection standards.
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Ted Chaiban (left) and Oluseyi Bajulaiye at signing of agreement on children
Demobilized children will benefit from life skills and vocational training opportunities, educational support, recreation, sports and career guidance. Social workers will monitor and ensure the follow-up of children during their reintegration.
Exact numbers of children linked to Darfur's armed groups are unclear, but UNICEF estimates that at least 7,000 could be associated with various forces in the region. "Today's agreement is only the start …but I hope we will now see real efforts to turn this agreement into tangible action for children, and that others will agree to hand over children that may be attached to their own forces," Mr. Chaiban said.
Photos are credited to Jean Lokenga, UNMIS |
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