Promoting Women’s Legitimacy: Countering Anti-Women Narratives in Malakal

In a strategic effort to create a more inclusive environment for women’s leadership and political participation, the National Press Club-South Sudan, with support from the Peacebuilding Fund through UN Women, launched an awareness campaign to challenge anti-women narratives. Held on August 29, 2024, the event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the state government, parliament, women’s caucus, civil society, youth, chiefs, persons with disabilities, and residents of Malakal.

The discussions highlighted the crucial need to empower women and acknowledge their contributions, with several references made to their active role during the liberation movement. Hon. James, representing the deputy governor, recounted the significant involvement of women during that time, notably in the formation of Katiba Bannat, where women provided shelter and care for the injured. He stressed the importance of education, open dialogue, and support for women’s rights, urging men to uphold the 35% representation for women as outlined in the peace agreement. Hon. James also underscored the necessity of women’s participation in politics and governance, calling for a more inclusive approach to state leadership.

Ms. Nyaruon Gabriel, field officer for the National Press Club, highlighted the lack of investment in girls’ education within local communities. She emphasized that educating girls is fundamental to cultivating future women leaders.

Deng Michael Yor, paramount chief of Malakal County, echoed the call for greater support for women’s aspirations, urging the government, UN agencies, and international organizations to play a role in empowering women. He further challenged women to pursue education, stressing that knowledge is a powerful tool that could raise women’s representation beyond the current 35%, potentially reaching 50%.

The spokesperson for the women’s caucus in the state parliament emphasized the need to nurture young girls’ talents and leadership potential. She advocated for the development of training programs and workshops to enhance women’s leadership skills and increase awareness of the vital role women play in politics.

Throughout the event, different speakers delivered powerful messages, urging men to see women as equal partners in all spheres of life—whether at home, in the community, or on the national stage. They highlighted the indispensable contributions women make to society and encouraged women to take responsibility for pursuing their rights, while calling on men to abandon harmful stereotypes and traditional perceptions. Women were also encouraged to prioritize education and personal development.

This campaign reached about 70 stakeholders in Malakal, marking an important step toward ensuring greater participation and leadership for women in Malakal and in South Sudan’s political and social progress.

Participants sited, and attending to a presentation during the campaign. Photo SSBC Malakal/Mayen

Participants sited, and attending to a presentation during the campaign. Photo SSBC Malakal/Mayen

Participants sited, and attending to a presentation during the campaign. Photo SSBC Malakal/Mayen