The Community Development Agency (CDA) Strengthens Community Awareness of Legal Aid and Justice Services in Raja and Wau Counties

Wau and Raja, Western Bahr el Ghazal State 16 October 2026

Awut Dut Paul

10/23/2026

The Community Development Agency (CDA) has conducted a series of community awareness activities this week in Raja and Wau counties, Western Bahr el Ghazal State, to increase public understanding of legal procedures and the free services available through its Justice and Confidence Centres (JCCs).

The awareness activities aim to ensure that community members, particularly vulnerable and disadvantaged groups, understand their legal rights, know where to seek assistance, and can access appropriate support when facing legal challenges. The sessions also provide an opportunity for community members to learn about the importance of following established legal procedures, reporting criminal cases to the relevant authorities, and seeking professional legal assistance rather than relying on misinformation or taking matters into their own hands.

Through the JCCs, CDA provides free legal advice, legal representation, alternative dispute resolution (ADR) through mediation, psychosocial support, referrals to relevant service providers, and mobile legal aid services. These services are intended to address barriers that prevent people from accessing justice, including poverty, distance, limited legal awareness, and difficulties navigating formal justice institutions.

The community awareness activities also highlight the importance of mediation and peaceful dialogue in resolving appropriate community disputes. Through facilitated dialogue and negotiation, parties may be supported to reach mutually acceptable solutions, strengthen relationships, and prevent disagreements from escalating into wider conflict. However, cases involving serious criminal offences, gender-based violence, child protection concerns, or other matters requiring formal legal intervention are referred to the appropriate authorities and service providers.

CDA's mobile legal aid support further extends assistance to communities that face geographical, financial, or security-related barriers to accessing the Justice and Confidence Centres. This approach helps bring legal information and services closer to people who might otherwise be unable to obtain timely assistance.

In addition to legal support, CDA provides psychosocial support and referrals for individuals experiencing emotional distress or requiring specialized protection, health, or social services. This integrated approach recognises that people facing legal challenges may also need confidential, compassionate and appropriate support to address their broader needs.