By Kidega Livingstone
Peter Pitia, the Vice Chairperson representing the youth of Rajaf Payam in Juba, Central Equatorial State, is on a mission to challenge the status quo and ensure that everyone’s rights and dignity are respected.
Peter lives in a community grappling with issues like early forced marriages, teenage pregnancies, and gender-based violence (GBV).
Recently, Peter participated in a training session organized by Jamnel Care and funded by Amplify Change. The session covered sensitive topics such as menstruation, intimate partner violence, and the importance of community awareness on the risks of HIV/AIDS.
“The training gave me a deeper understanding of these critical issues,” said Peter. “I now feel empowered to advocate for women’s rights and work towards building a brighter future for everyone in our community.”
“We are grateful to Amplify Change for their support,” said Peter. “Together, we’re reaching significant milestones for women and girls in Juba, South Sudan. Their belief in our mission inspires us to continue making a positive impact in our community.”
Daniel Juma Charles, from Gumbo South, Rajaf Payam, also attended the training. He said that in South Sudan, women, girls, and marginalized groups face various challenges, including limited access to healthcare, gender inequalities, and high rates of gender-based violence.
“The training addressed gender-based violence, which is a major concern in our community,” said Daniel. “It stressed the importance of community support and proactive measures to prevent and address gender-based violence.”
Daniel plans to raise awareness, promote gender equality, and advocate for policies that protect women and girls from all forms of violence and discrimination.
The training also covered the local impact of HIV/AIDS, stressing the importance of regular testing and safe practices for everyone’s health and safety.
Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) address not only physical health but also the emotional, mental, and social aspects related to sexuality and reproduction.
SRHR ensures that every person can make informed decisions about their bodies and reproductive lives, supported by comprehensive information and accessible services.