A growing number of women in the Western Equatoria State capital, Yambio, have turned to bricklaying to achieve financial independence, support their families, and reduce dependence on men.
The women are breaking traditional gender roles and proving that hard work can change lives.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj, Cecelia Francis, a mother who has been laying bricks for over three years, shared her journey of resilience and determination.
“I started laying bricks because I did not want to depend on my husband for everything. I laid 30,000 bricks in my first attempt and sold them. This time, I have already laid 25,000, and I am still making more,” she explained. “My husband does not work, so, I take full responsibility for supporting the family. I want to advise women to stop relying on men for everything. Try your best to contribute, and when both partners work together, it makes life easier for the whole family.”
“There are many expenses in this business, like buying water and dealing with damaged bricks, so when you are buying bricks, do not push the seller to lower the price unfairly,” Francis added.
Another married woman, Viola Raphael, 31, said she has been laying bricks for a while now.
“The first time I sold bricks, I used the money to buy a plot of land. Unfortunately, the second batch of bricks I made was stolen by my neighbors but I did not give up,” she narrated. “I made more bricks and burnt them again because I want to build my house and take care of my children.”
Viola said she has burnt up to 30,000 bricks in different phases. With her husband’s support, she plans to continue bricklaying to provide for her family.
“This work has helped me a lot. I plan to sell these bricks and use the money to register my children in school,” she said. “My advice to other women is to stop sitting idle and waiting for help. No one taught me how to do this. Women should stand strong and take action.”
Meanwhile, Elias Martin, a youth in Yambio, highlighted the challenges bricklayers face, particularly the cost of water and other materials.
“A big tank of water costs SSP 8,000 Right now, a batch of bricks sells for 130,000 but there is a lot of work and expense that goes into it,” he stated.
Elias encouraged women not to feel ashamed of engaging in bricklaying, despite societal perceptions.
“Some people might laugh at you but do not mind them. Many young men sit idly in town while we have enough soil and resources to make bricks,” he said. “If you put in the effort, you can earn SSP 130,000, which is a good income.”
The stories of these women show that hard work and determination can help families achieve financial stability, and they serve as an inspiration for others in the community to embrace self-reliance and entrepreneurship.