By William Madouk
Central Equatoria State has launched integrated ethical, safe, and effective approach program to prevent gender-based violence (GBV) into youth economic initiatives.
Under the state Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare, the program is supported by UN Development Program and Hope Africa South Sudan.
The three-month project targets 680 individuals in both Eastern and Central Equatoria States.
Its goal is to weave effective actions against GBV throughout a broader program focused on youth development.
In her remarks, Mariam Aguli Zachriah, Advisor to the Governor of Central Equatoria on Gender, Child, and Social Welfare, stated, “we are committed to doing much to combat GBV.”
“Therefore, as government of central Equatoria I think this project of inception is very important,” Mariam added.
She cherished the partners for choosing Central Equatoria state to integrate an ethical, safe and effective GBV prevention approach into the youth economic development program.
“I hope let it not end here in launching it, let it go down to our counties also” she noted.
Margaret Mathiang, UNDP Gender Analyst, explained that the project aims to enhance youth employability through skill-building, business development, and financial support.
She highlighted concerning findings from an assessment that revealed a high prevalence of GBV.
“By integrating GBV into the youth enterprise development and capacity building, we aim to improve the economic outcomes for young women through addressing vulnerability,” she stated.
“The project will empower young women and advance gender equality through behavioral and social norm change intervention,” Ms. Mathiang added.
According to her, this is a journey toward a more prosperous and resilient society and support for the United Nations 2030 agenda for sustainable development.
On the other hand, Mr. Aduol Aduol Yel, Executive Director of Hope Africa South Sudan said, “the importance of this project is that one, it will ensure that there are reduced cases of GBV in the local communities in Central Equatorial State, particularly Juba.”
“We are going to look at different approaches to GBV prevention, such as the stepping stones, creating features, and in the Shakirwa or opinion leaders here in CES – We will engage both spouses, local communities, women and boys, girls,” he added.
He noted that the project which kick-started will come to an end in February 28, 2025 – would engage communities in sensitization seminars, and dialogue that would see GBV behavioural change.
“The project also will target 680 people as direct, but indirect will be more than that number. So, it will be 1,300 beneficiaries,”
To him, eliminating Gender-based violence means peaceful community where growth can be realized.
Organized under the theme: “GBV prevention approaches for safer and peaceful communities.”