SIHA Network Launches Initiative to Empower Women Leaders in South Sudan
SIHA Network Launches Initiative to Empower Women Leaders in South Sudan
By Alex Yabis
The Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA) Network has launched a consultative meeting in the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio, Western Equatoria State (WES). The three-day meeting, held at the Curia, aims to address gaps and challenges faced by women in South Sudan, seeking solutions that promote their empowerment and meaningful participation in governance and political affairs.
Speaking at the launch, Bibiana Joseph, SIHA Network's Project Officer, emphasized that the project’s focus on inclusive governance under the theme: “Inclusive Governance for Peace: Supporting Young Women’s Meaningful Political Participation in South Sudan.”
Bibiana explained that the initiative is a two-year project funded by the UN Peacebuilding Program in South Sudan. It targets 35 young women leaders from Western Equatoria State (WES), Central Equatoria State (CES), and Western Bahr El-Ghazal State (WBS), including 15 participants from WES, 15 from Bar-El-Ghazal, and 10 from Juba.
“This project seeks to support women through capacity building, enabling them to overcome barriers and actively contribute to political and governance processes,” said Bibiana.
Rev. Fr. Charles Mbikoyo, Director of the Catholic Organization for Development and Peace (CODEP), commended SIHA for introducing the initiative to Western Equatoria, particularly Yambio.
“This initiative is a stepping stone for empowering women in South Sudan. It highlights the need for education and intellectual development among women to strengthen their role in political affairs,” Rev. Fr. Mbikoyo stated.
The launch was attended by several dignitaries, including Sylvester Ruati, Chairperson of the Youth Union in WES, and representatives from the State Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare. Their presence underscored the significance of collaborative efforts to advance women’s rights and representation in decision-making processes.
The Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA) Network is an organization committed to improving the status of women through capacity building, advocacy, and education.
