YAMBIO, Western Equatoria State, Nov. 3—A two-day training on gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) aimed at strengthening women’s roles through media and community outreach was held at the Women’s Empowerment Center in Yambio, Western Equatoria State’s capital.
The Female Journalists Network (FJN), in collaboration with IREX and funded by USAID, organized the training to address gender-based violence (GBV) and advance gender equality and social inclusion across the region.
Mrs. Buseina Jenty Peter, chair of the newly formed Women’s Working Group (WWG), raised critical concerns regarding gender-sensitive issues in Yambio, particularly the barriers women face in accessing justice. She highlighted disturbing practices such as child trafficking, where children as young as two are sold to their fathers following a divorce, and noted the pervasive male dominance in community decision-making. “Gender equality is still far from being realized,” she said.
Mrs. Seba Elizae, another WWG member, emphasized the exclusion of women from key family decisions, such as marriage arrangements for their daughters, lamenting the marginalization of women’s voices in these areas.
Participants expressed gratitude to the Female Journalists Network and USAID, calling for additional skill-building initiatives to bolster advocacy for gender equality and social inclusion. Hellen Samuel from Eye Radio, representing the Female Journalists Network, encouraged attendees to apply their new knowledge and train others in GESI principles.
Sijali Haron, the GESI focal person at IREX, urged participants to act as catalysts for change, addressing GBV and fostering equality at the grassroots level.
Despite ongoing efforts, gender-based violence, inequality, and social exclusion remain significant issues in the state, particularly in rural areas, highlighting the need for continued training and advocacy to drive progress.
