A group of South Sudanese women, dressed in black to mourn the death of peace in their country, held a silent protest on the streets of Juba Thursday against the war and the failure of leaders to end the fighting.

“We are still mourning for our nation," said Jane Gordon Sworow, chairperson of the Grassroots Women’s Network for Peace which participated in the peaceful demonstration, speaking to Radio Tamazuj. "Our husbands and children up to this moment are dying because of what has happened in 15 December. This is why we dress in black clothes. When there is any silence for peace then we will celebrate and put on our white clothes.”

“We just do not want to hear any guns anymore," she added. "What we need is peace."

Sworow said people are still dying and demanded both parties sign a deal immediately to end the killing. Sworow stressed that they as women don’t want to meet any government officials but will continue to take to the streets until there is peace.

The protesters included women displaced by fighting from around South Sudan. Elizabeth Koul, who traveled from the UN protection of civilians camp in Malakal where she has lived since December, said she has seen children die and demanded peace so they do not lose more South Sudanese citizens.

Harriet Barak, coordinator for Women's Voice for Peace and Faith, said the women have submitted several petitions to the government calling for peace, but the war has continued anyway.

“The nation is crying because a lot of bloodshed, a lot of killing," Barak said. "The remaining of our children who are supposed to take the country forward are dead. The question is, 'what is left? Who will own this country?' ”

“May God open...the hearts of our leaders and the negotiators to feel that they are created by God," she said, adding that the politicians who control South Sudan should learn to have love for the nation and the people as a whole.

Radio Tamazuj Photo: Women in Juba protest for peace on 18 September 2014

To contact Radio Tamazuj with press releases, comments or information, write to radiotamazuj@gmail.com with full name and contact information.