Jonglei State joined the global community in marking the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in South Sudan. The multi-agency event, aimed at supporting women and girls, was held under the country’s theme: “Act Now! Prevent and Respond to Violence Against Women and Girls.” The global theme for the year was “Towards 30 Years of The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action: Unite to End Violence Against Women.”
The day’s observance included speeches and presentations from women’s groups, women’s rights organizations, UN agencies, international and local NGOs, civil society organizations, and was complemented by sports activities such as football, volleyball, and athletics.
In support of the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV, the Women Empowerment Program South Sudan (WEPSS), a Bor-based women’s rights organization, organized a volleyball match between Sheikh El Nur and Malek Secondary Schools.
The match, held in Bor Town’s Freedom Square, aimed to raise awareness about the pervasive issue of gender-based violence, particularly in Jonglei State, where women and girls often face threats from early and forced marriages, sexual exploitation, abuse, and physical and emotional harassment.
The volleyball game, exclusively for young girls, served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight against GBV in South Sudan.
Majok Ayuen Kok, the Programs Manager for WEPSS, stressed the urgent need for action in addressing GBV. “It is time to act now! We must stop GBV. This message is directed at our communities, our government, and all civil society groups. We don’t want to see more women and girls suffering,” Kok said.
Kok also highlighted the importance of supporting women’s empowerment, noting the South Sudanese government’s 35% affirmative action for women. She called for a 50% female participation target in all sectors, including governance and decision-making processes.
Team captain Ms. Yar Geu of Sheikh El Nur Secondary School expressed her excitement about the event. “I’m thrilled to be part of this game. It’s a great way to refresh my mind and make new friends. Sports like this bring us together for a good cause, showing our support for the fight against gender-based violence,” Geu said.
Ms. Akur Alier, the alternate team captain of Malek Secondary School’s girls’ volleyball team, emphasized the importance of sports in raising awareness. “Games like this are important because they help reduce violence against women and girls. They are a fun way to raise awareness, and we need more of these activities to unite our community and promote peace,” Alier said.
Recent data from the World Health Organization paints a stark picture, revealing that 45% of South Sudanese women aged 15 to 64 experience physical violence during their lifetime. This statistic highlights the urgency of addressing gender-based violence in the country.
The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign is an annual United Nations initiative that runs from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (International Human Rights Day). This year’s campaign focuses on addressing the root causes of GBV, promoting positive masculinity, advancing gender equity, and creating economic opportunities for women and girls.
The girls’ volleyball match was sponsored with funding from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), co-implemented by Women for Women International, in partnership with Saferworld.