The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Government of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State have trained 20 customary court leaders from Aweil West and Aweil North counties to strengthen the rule of law and improve access to justice.
The two-week training, held from 24 October to 5 November, focused on enhancing the skills of traditional leaders in handling gender-based violence, human rights violations, and community disputes under customary law.
Paul Martin, the county judge in Aweil West and Aweil North counties, commended UNDP for its continued support in building the capacity of local leaders.
“These sultans (chiefs) are our most important partners in implementing both customary and statutory law,” Martin said. “I appreciate UNDP’s efforts and hope this will not be the last training for our traditional leaders.”
Ker Wel, Director of Children’s Affairs at the State Ministry of Gender and Child Welfare, said the initiative aims to strengthen the understanding of customary law and address challenges faced by local courts.
“We have listened to the difficulties local leaders encounter in handling cases,” he noted. “Some issues require attention from both state and national authorities to improve the customary system.”
He added that discussions during the training also touched on community diversity and cultural changes affecting justice delivery.
Meanwhile, Paramount Chief Simon Diang of Aweil North County expressed gratitude for the opportunity, pledging to apply the lessons learned in the court.
“With this training, we are better equipped to ensure fair justice for all in our communities,” he said.
For her part, Female Chief Sultana Teresa Ahok Garang echoed the same sentiments, describing the program as “inspiring and unifying.”
“I thank the government and UNDP for bringing us together to address the challenges faced by customary court leaders,” she said.
The initiative is part of ongoing efforts by the state government and UNDP to strengthen traditional justice systems and promote peace, equality, and justice in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State.