Sudan and South Sudan face child recruitment scrutiny and UN protection drives

Human‑rights monitors say Islamist militias allied with the Port Sudan SAF junta have recruited a child, citing a motorcycle‑driving permit as evidence. The allegation, if verified, would breach Sudanese law and international conventions that forbid the use of minors in armed conflict. Officials called for independent investigations and for the groups to be held accountable, with some urging that Islamist networks involved be designated as terrorist organisations.

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), together with UNICEF and national partners, continues to release children formerly conscripted into armed forces in Yambio and Malakal. Child‑protection officers highlight the logistical and security challenges of locating and reintegrating former child soldiers, but stress that each rescued child represents a step toward peace and the restoration of childhood.