Darfur rebel movement bans use of child soldiers in its ranks

The Sudan Liberation Movement, led by Minni Minawi (SLM-MM), is to stop recruiting or deploying child soldiers. Minawi announced the decision after his participation in a workshop on peace and security in Darfur that took place on 9-11 December in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa. The technical workshop was organised by Unamid in cooperation with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) with the aim “to figure out the position of the non-signatory rebel movements to the Darfur peace process and to find a way to begin a new peace process,” The workshop also dealt with issues related to international humanitarian law and human rights. The head of Unamid, Dr Mohamed ibn Chambas, has welcomed the decision. “Unamid appreciates the commitment of SLM-MM to adhere to the international laws and principles on the protection of children against violence,” he said. “Involving children in armed conflict is a serious crime that not only endangers their own lives but will also affect negatively their future and that of their societies.”    File photo  Related:Commission discusses progress of Darfur peace agreement (17 December 2013) Darfur rebel groups repeat stance on comprehensive peace (15 December 2013) Two major rebel groups attend Darfur peace forum in Addis Ababa (9 December 2013)