Eve Organization for Women Development kicked off its 4th Annual National Women’s Conference in Juba on Tuesday. It focuses on Forging Collaboration for Advancing Women’s Leadership for Lasting Peace and Security in South Sudan.”
The two-day event, which began on Tuesday, 22nd October 2024, brings together women leaders, government officials, and civil society representatives to discuss key issues affecting women and girls in the country.
The conference, organized in partnership with Cordaid, Plan International, UN Women, the Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, and other women-led organizations, will conclude on Wednesday, 23rd October.
Different sectors discussed critical topics such as the impact of climate change on women and girls, mental health challenges for women leaders, and the inclusion of women in South Sudan’s constitution-making process.
Mrs. Rita Martines, Executive Director of Eve Organization, emphasized the conference’s importance as a platform for women to raise their voices and engage with the government and stakeholders.
“The purpose of this conference is to provide a space for South Sudanese women to reflect on peace and security issues, raise these concerns with the government and partners, and network with one another.
“We have women from different states and sectors here, working together to motivate each other for the progress of women and girls at both the state and national levels.”
Martines also urged the government and peace partners to prioritize addressing the hardships faced by women and girls, including economic struggles, forced displacement due to flooding, gender-based violence, and ongoing insecurity, especially as the country approaches the extended election period.
The conference also featured remarks from the Executive Director of UN Women, who reiterated the UN Secretary-General’s commitment to gender equality and women’s rights across all initiatives. “Peace without women is not peace,” she said, underscoring the importance of women’s inclusion in peacebuilding and governance.
Representing the government, the Deputy Governor of Jonglei State, HE Atong Kuol Manayang, acknowledged women’s crucial role during the liberation struggle, calling their participation a contribution worthy of recognition.
She highlighted the government’s commitment to advancing women’s rights, noting the 35% affirmative action quota for women in government.
The conference is seen as an essential gathering for women leaders to influence policy, advocate for their rights, and strengthen their role in building lasting peace in South Sudan.
