By Hou Akot Hou
Women have been urged to actively participate in political processes, so they can better raise their voices, shaping future governance.
As discussions around gender equality and representation gain momentum, political leaders in Northern Bahr el Ghazal stressed that it is important for women to get involved in decision-making at all levels.
This call was made during a women’s transformative and mentorship workshop in Aweil that concluded on Wednesday, garnering excitement among female leaders in Northern Bahr El Ghazal state.
The event brought together women Members of Parliament from both national and state levels.
Ms. Monica Nyibol Aleu, the State Minister of Gender and Social Welfare, noted that the two-day workshop brought together women from various assemblies and women’s associations across the state and its counties.
The workshop aimed to enhance the capacities of women leaders, empowering them to advocate for their rights in governance and elections.
“We have a percentage that we intend to fight for. As we have been granted our share of 35%, we need to actively participate in governance and all political activities that concern us. I urge every educated young woman to speak up,” said the minister.
She encouraged women to avoid working behind the scenes and to engage with issues that affect them.
“I encourage you, as young ladies, to participate in such activities, especially with elections approaching. Always show up and advocate for your rights,” she added.
Participant Adut Deng praised the workshop and urged her peers to pursue education, emphasizing the importance of being open-minded and informed about leadership matters, much like other knowledgeable women in the State.
She expressed gratitude to UNDP and the Ministry of Gender for organizing the workshop.