Yambio, South Sudan – Grassroots campaigns against gender-based violence (GBV) in Yambio, Western Equatoria, have contributed to a significant reduction in domestic violence cases across the county. According to Gloria Angelo Gene, the Chairperson of the Voluntary Community Action Group (VCAG), the awareness initiatives have played a crucial role in changing attitudes and behaviors towards gender violence.
Gene noted that the campaign has brought about noticeable improvements in community dynamics, with a particular shift in how men and women interact. The message has resonated in many households, leading to fewer cases of women being assaulted by their husbands, and vice versa.
“We’ve conducted numerous training sessions with the community, and there has been clear progress,” Gene stated during a grassroots campaign event on gender-based violence in Yambio on Friday. “We urge other communities still struggling with mistreatment of women to end the violence and instead become champions of peace.”
Gene highlighted that the grassroots efforts have not only raised awareness but also fostered a culture of accountability and respect. Through sustained engagement and advocacy, there has been tangible improvement in addressing gender violence in the region.
Support from Local Authorities
The Director General for the Ministry of Local Government and Law Enforcement in Western Equatoria, Benjamin Commander Gayos, emphasized the commitment of local authorities to combat gender-based violence, despite the challenges the region continues to face. He stressed the need for clearer pathways for handling criminal offenses related to GBV, noting that it is a shared responsibility between victims, the community, and traditional leaders.
“We’ve observed that the referral pathways for GBV cases are not always clear,” Gayos remarked. “It is critical that we work together – victims, community members, and leaders – to ensure these cases are addressed properly.”
UNFPA and Amref Health Africa’s Support
The campaign against gender-based violence in Yambio has been supported by international partners, notably the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Amref Health Africa, which have provided essential resources and technical assistance. These organizations have been instrumental in providing support to survivors of GBV and improving health outcomes in affected communities.
According to a Situation Analysis report by the World Health Organization (WHO) and health cluster partners, South Sudan has one of the highest rates of gender-based violence globally. The report indicates that 65% of women in the country have reported experiencing sexual violence, a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges.
Despite the progress seen in Yambio, experts stress that more efforts are needed across South Sudan to address the widespread issue of gender-based violence and ensure that survivors receive the support and protection they deserve.
