From Silence to Empowerment – Promoting Victim-Centered Justice in Western Equatoria

In the aftermath of prolonged conflict in Western Equatoria, communities were left grappling with unresolved trauma, widespread human rights abuses, and a deep lack of awareness about avenues for justice and redress. Survivors—many of whom had suffered in silence—were unaware of their rights, and transitional justice mechanisms remained distant, complex, and inaccessible.

Prior to intervention, Masia Market and its surrounding communities were characterized by low levels of information regarding the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH) and the Compensation and Reparation Authority (CRA). Victims of conflict-related abuses struggled to understand how to seek justice or participate in national healing processes. Social cohesion was fragile, and the collective pain of the past remained largely unaddressed in public discourse
With support from UNDP South Sudan and the Peacebuilding Fund, the Road to Economic Development Organisation (REDO) launched a targeted awareness campaign to bridge this gap. Through a community-centered Roadshow at Masia Market, REDO delivered clear, accessible messages about the CTRH and CRA, highlighting the newly enacted 2024 Acts. The outreach encouraged open dialogue, validated the experiences of survivors, and emphasized the importance of transitional justice and healing.

The results have been transformative. Community members are now better informed about their rights and the structures in place to support them. Survivors who once felt invisible have found renewed hope and purpose. Social bonds within the community have strengthened as people unite around shared stories and aspirations for justice. Most importantly, these local voices are now informing REDO’s advocacy efforts, ensuring that the implementation of the CTRH and CRA remains victim-centered and grounded in lived realities.

REDO extends sincere gratitude to #UNDPSouthSudan and the #Peacebuilding Fund for their invaluable support. Your partnership is not only helping to amplify the voices of survivors but also laying the foundation for a more just and peaceful future in South Sudan