By Jenifer James
King News, 11th September – The Deputy Country Representative for UN Women in South Sudan has urged the media to amplify women’s voices as the country approaches its elections. This appeal was made during UN Women’s first-ever media engagement event held on Wednesday.
In her opening remarks to the media, the deputy country representative of UN Women, Rukaya Mohammed, said that South Sudan is preparing for its first-ever election, a landmark event that brings both promising opportunities and significant challenges for gender equality in the country. Rukaya Mohammed highlighted the dual nature of this momentous occasion.
“The upcoming election represents a historic chance for women to step into leadership roles and influence the future of South Sudan,” Rukaya said. “Women, especially young women, should seize this opportunity to mobilize and actively participate in the political process.”
However, the election also poses serious risks. Rukaya emphasized the threats women may face, noting, “While the election is a chance for increased female representation, it also brings concerns about potential violence and intimidation. We have seen how violence against women can deter them from participating in politics, and this is something we must address urgently.”
South Sudan has seen some progress in female representation within electoral management bodies, such as the National Election Commission (NEC), which has 22% women, and the National Constitutional Review Commission, which has 33% female representation. Despite these advancements, Rukaya pointed out that these figures still fall short of the 35% affirmative action target set by the constitution. “It’s critical that we continue advocating for greater female representation in these decision-making bodies to ensure that women’s voices are fully integrated into electoral policies,” she stated.
The registration of 29 political parties, including four led or chaired by women, marks a positive development. “We need more women-led parties to enhance diversity and inclusivity in our political landscape,” Rukaya stressed. “The challenge is to not only meet but exceed the 35% affirmative action provision.”
In addition to political challenges, South Sudan faces severe humanitarian and economic issues. Rukaya highlighted the impact on women, saying, “The country’s high rates of gender-based violence, coupled with displacement and economic hardship, create significant barriers for women. With over 795,000 refugees from Sudan, 75% of whom are women and children, the strain on resources and the risk of violence are growing.”
Economic difficulties, including the depreciation of the South Sudanese pound and high living costs, further exacerbate the situation. “Women entrepreneurs face enormous challenges due to high costs and unofficial taxes. These economic pressures can undermine their ability to participate in political and social spheres,” Rukaya explained.
The role of the media is crucial in advocating for gender equality during this period. “The media has a significant influence in shaping public perception and driving policy changes. Your coverage of gender-related issues is vital for advancing women’s rights and ensuring that their voices are heard,” Rukaya concluded.