Empowering Women for a Brighter Future: South Sudan Celebrates International Women’s Day 2024 in Mundri

In a transformative celebration of International Women’s Day 2024, UN Women South Sudan in partnership with the Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare, UN agencies and stakeholders orchestrated a monumental event that brought together women from every corner of the nation at Mundri Stadium on March 8, 2024. Under this year’s National theme “Empowering Women: Accelerating Progress in South Sudan.” The gathering served as a catalyst for change, advocating for gender equality and honoring the remarkable achievements of women nationwide.

The event, graced by distinguished guests including Governor Alfred Futiyo Karaba of Western Equatoria, Undersecretaries, Directors, Gender Focal Persons, and representatives from national line ministries, UN agencies (UNICEF, UNFPA, FAO and UNESCO headed by the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary General, Ms. Anita Kiki Gbeho, and various civil society organizations, the gathering exemplified a collective commitment to advancing the rights and opportunities of women.

 Minister of Gender Child, and Social Welfare Aya Benjamin Warile, delivered an impassioned address, urging women to embrace their inherent strength and resilience. She emphasized the urgency of empowering girls and women to break free from the shackles of discrimination, declaring, “it is time for women to rise, assert their rights, and shatter the barriers that hold them back.”

Governor Afred Futiyo Karaba echoed Minister Warile’s sentiments, applauding the indomitable spirit of South Sudanese women and acknowledging the challenges they face, declared, “Today, we honor and celebrate the invaluable contributions of women to our society. Let us stand together in solidarity and commit to dismantling the patriarchal structures that seek to diminish their voices.” 

Deputy Special Representative and UN Resident Coordinator, Anita Kiki Gbeho of UN Women underscored the -importance of accelerating gender inclusion and providing women with access to resources and opportunities. She emphasized, “Empowering women is not just a moral imperative; it is an economic necessity. By harnessing the potential of women, we unlock the key to sustainable development and prosperity for all.” 

The Deputy Country Representative, Rukaya Mohammed of UN Women South Sudan expressed, 'Today, as we stand in Mundri to celebrate International Women's Day, we are reminded of the strength and resilience that women of South Sudan embody. Their courage in the face of adversity is not just inspiring—it's a beacon of hope for a future where equality isn't just aspired to but lived. Let's commit to making that future a reality, for every woman and girl in South Sudan and beyond.”

Christine Sitty, the Chairperson of a Women's group in Mundri, voiced the collective sentiments of the women, urging them with the reminder, "It is the right of everyone to move freely without fear." 

As the event concluded, participants left inspired and invigorated, with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. Through collaborative efforts and unwavering dedication, UN Women South Sudan continue to champion the cause of women’s empowerment, creating a more equitable and inclusive society. 

International Women’s Day 2024 served as a powerful reminder of the collective commitment to advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment, propelling South Sudan towards a brighter, more inclusive future for all. As Minister Warille eloquently stated,” when women are empowered, entire communities thrive. Let us continue to march forward together, united in our pursuit of a world where every woman and girl realize her full potential.”