(ABYEI) – The Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare in Abyei has launched a partnership with United Nations Police (UNPOL) to improve cooking and vocational training facilities in the area. The initiative is designed to provide women, men and persons with disabilities with practical skills to help them secure better livelihoods.
The announcement was made following a strategic meeting between the Ministry and UN Police officers on Tuesday, 26 August 2025. According to the Ministry, the effort goes beyond teaching culinary skills, focusing instead on empowerment and restoring dignity by enabling participants to earn a sustainable income.
Aluel Minyeil Rou, the Minister of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, said the project is about “giving our people the tools to secure a better future.” She explained that investing in skills development is a way of improving the social and economic conditions of Abyei’s communities.
The programme aims to upgrade existing training centres into community hubs where participants will gain hands-on training in food preparation, hygiene and small business management. This is expected to create opportunities for self-employment and small-scale business ventures in the local economy.
UN Police officers pledged to support the initiative with resources and logistical assistance to ensure it reaches marginalised groups. The Ministry described this collaboration as a model of how gender equality and social protection can be put into practice.
Minister Rou also highlighted her Ministry’s continuing oversight of the gender-based violence desk at the police station in Abyei, which provides survivors with protection and support services. She noted that the expansion of training is part of a broader social agenda to empower vulnerable groups.
As part of ongoing efforts, the Ministry is preparing activities for International Girls’ Day, which will emphasise girls’ rights and empowerment. In addition, a new child protection programme is being developed to assist neglected children and strengthen their safety and wellbeing.
The Ministry said the dialogue with UN Police reflects a shared commitment to addressing social and economic challenges through cooperation. Minister Rou stressed that effective partnerships between institutions are crucial for long-term impact.