Ellen Margrethe Loej, the head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), appealed Tuesday for women to participate in the upcoming transitional government of national unity.

Speaking during a conference organized by South Sudan Women’s Initiative at Nyakuron Cultural Centre, Loej said women have a big role in building the economy and society.

She said that the signed peace agreement talks about establishing a Women's Support Fund during the proposed transitional period. Loej said the fund will enhance and develop women's capabilities in South Sudan.

The UNMISS chief noted that women and girls in South Sudan have suffered the worst abuses during the civil war. She called for full implementation of the peace agreement in order to bring an end to abuses perpetrated against women.

At the same event, South Sudan's Minister of Gender Awut Deng Achuil said women can play a positive role in building a culture of peace and reconciliation.