16 days of Activism against GBV campaign launched in Juba, South Sudan

“Stop Gender based violence, it’s a crime against humanity, stop, stop Gender based violence” were the lyrics from the music that ushered the excited participants to Nyakuron Cultural Center Auditorium to witness the launch of the 16 days of Gender Based Violence organized by the Ministry of Gender, Child, and social welfare with support from United Nations, and other partners. Participants pledged to challenge every form of violence against women and girls.

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign that kicks off on 25th November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) and runs until 10th December (Human Rights Day). It is an international campaign to fight violence against women and girls.

This year’s campaign global theme “Unite! Invest to prevent Violence against women and Girls”.  South Sudan adopted a local theme: Act now! Prevent and Respond to Violence against women and girls.”

The theme aims to bring together civil society and women’s rights organizations, as well as the UN system, and government partners, to advocate for inclusive, comprehensive, and long-term strategies, programs, and resources to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the minister for Gender, Child, and Social Welfare Hon. Angelina Teny, the Minister of Interior said violence against women and girls continues to be a barrier to gender equality in most countries around the world including South Sudan, despite the numerous ongoing programs and interventions. The adverse consequences of GBV on women and girls in relation to their health, psychological and emotional well-being she said compromise and undermine their development.

She noted further that violence against women and girls is not a women issue, stressing that it is a societal issue that affects everyone. “let’s all pledge to work together and prevent violence against women and girls. We should all work together to ensure that every girl is safe from GBV” She stressed.

The acting Under Secretary Ministry of Gender and Social Welfare Joseph Loro in his welcome remarks noted that GBV is deep rooted in South Sudan and has been exacerbated by social imbalances that hinder women’s economic empowerment.

“a lot has been done but more effort is required both at policy and community level, let’s work together to ensure that GBV is no more” he said.  He called on all stakeholders to prioritize funding, and to strengthen existing mechanisms to prevent and respond to GBV.

Speaking on behalf of the UN Resident Coordinator, Dr. Ademola Olajide, called on stakeholders to rally around the global theme to end all forms of discrimination against women and girls.

“Violence against women is a hindrance to well-being, peace, security, & sustainable development. It is time to scale up investments in policies and programs to eliminate all forms of violence & root out negative social norms” said Ademola.