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NPC-SS Hosts Radio Talk Shows to Promote Women’s Political Participation

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Juba, South Sudan – The National Press Club South Sudan (NPC-SS), with support from the Peacebuilding Fund through UN Women, has been conducting a series of radio talk shows on Eye Radio to enhance public awareness on women’s participation in politics and leadership before and after the upcoming South Sudan elections.

The talk shows aired on Friday, March 14, and Friday, March 28, 2025, from 4:00 to 5:00 PM, featuring discussions on critical themes such as Women’s Political Participation and Leadership and Breaking Barriers: Transforming Women’s Participation.

The programs brought together a panel of distinguished guests, including: Ms. Nyayo Rejoice and Ms. Agnes Dramio Martin – Students of law from the University of Juba, Mr. Mandre Joel Smith – from National Transitional Leadership Initiative, Molana Merio Jimmy – Legal expert on and lecturer at Ccatholic Univeristy, Ms. Jackline John, staff at the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, and Hon. Henry Kala – chairperson of Central Equatoria State’s independent commission for reconciliation.

Joined with radio listeners and online followers, the discussions focused on various key issues, including: The Importance of Women in Leadership and the benefits of gender inclusivity; Barriers to Women’s Political Participation and the challenges they face in leadership roles; The Role of Men in Supporting Women’s Political Leadership; Women Against Women – how internal biases and competition hinder progress; Bridging the Gender Gap – fostering collaboration between men and women in governance; Culture and Women’s Leadership – examining how traditional beliefs impact women’s leadership potential

Speaking during the shows, Ms. Agnes Dramio Martin emphasized that women’s involvement in politics is crucial for national development. “A society that excludes women from leadership is limiting its own growth. Women bring unique perspectives that enhance governance and peacebuilding,” she stated. Similarly, Hon. Jackline John shared her personal experiences in overcoming challenges as a woman in politics “We must break the stereotypes that politics is a man’s space. Women are capable leaders, and their voices must be heard,” she said.

The radio series aims to encourage more women to participate in leadership while challenging societal norms that limit their political engagement. The initiative has received positive feedback from listeners, sparking conversations across communities about gender inclusivity in governance. NPC-SS and its partners plan to continue engaging the public through media platforms to promote a more inclusive political landscape in South Sudan.

 

Guests at Eye Radio studios during a talk show on March 28, 2025 Photo: Eye Radio/ Staff

Guests at Eye Radio during a talk show on March 21, 2025 Photo: Eye Radio/ Staff

Guests at Radio Miraya during a talk show on March 17, 2025 Phot: Radio Miraya/ Staff

National Press Club takes talks to universities

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Originally published by Radio Tamazuj on March 15, 2025 

The National Press Club (NPC) held an open knowledge-sharing event on Friday, engaging around 20 university students—primarily young women—to encourage their participation in democratic processes.

The discussion, hosted in collaboration with the University of Juba, the Catholic University of South Sudan, and Stafford University, featured insights from prominent figures including Justice Perpetua Ajonye, a constitutional lawyer and Secretary-General of the Judicial Reform Committee, and Lona James Elia, Deputy Chairperson of the Political Parties’ Council.

Bullen Kenyi, Chairperson of the NPC Board of Directors, emphasised the event’s goal of equipping female students with public speaking skills to prepare them for future leadership roles. He explained that the focus on young women was deliberate, as their formative years present a critical opportunity for growth and development.

“This event is designed to empower young people, like the ones we see here today,” Mr Kenyi said. He urged participants to take the discussions seriously, stressing that leadership requires both knowledge and experience.

“I strongly encourage you to engage with the presentations from our speakers. When you leave here, you should take with you valuable knowledge,” he added. “Leadership is not possible without awareness, knowledge, and experience. If you aspire to be a leader, you must first be informed and prepared.”

Joseph Kido, Director-General in the National Ministry of Peacebuilding, called on young women to actively participate in South Sudan’s political landscape. He acknowledged that cultural stereotypes often hinder women’s involvement in politics and public discourse but emphasised the importance of challenging these norms.

“We would like to see strong female voices from all 10 states and the three administrative areas,” Mr Kido said. “Young women who are confident in public speaking and can address issues effectively.” Merio Jimmy, a lecturer at the Catholic University of South Sudan, urged the NPC to establish student press clubs in universities to further develop leadership skills among young people. The National Press Club is a nonprofit media organization in South Sudan where journalists and media professionals meet to improve theirskills.

National Press Club takes talks to universities

You women – Law students from the University of Juba pose for a group photo after the event. Photo by Moses A./NPC-SS

Participants and facilitators pose for group photo during the event. Photo by Dedy Esbon/ Radio Tamazuj

 

 

Women as Leaders: Countering Anti-Women Narratives

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In a powerful move to challenge anti-women narratives and stereotypes that undermine women’s legitimacy as leaders, the National Press Club South Sudan (NPC-SS), supported by the Peacebuilding Fund through UN Women, held a landmark event on September 13, 2024. This awareness campaign brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including representatives from national and state governments, youth organizations, women’s associations, persons with disabilities, and the media. The gathering served as a platform for sharing experiences, presenting data, and discussing critical issues, with a strong focus on dismantling the structural and cultural barriers that limit women’s active participation in politics and peace-building.

Dr. Rukaya Muhammed, Acting Country Director for UN Women South Sudan, opened the event by highlighting the damaging effects of narratives undermining women’s leadership. “These narratives are not just harmful, they are detrimental to our collective progress,” she stated, emphasizing the significant contributions women make to society. Dr. Rukaya pointed out that deep-rooted cultural beliefs and systemic inequalities often portray women as less capable or unworthy of leadership roles. To counter these misconceptions, she stressed that “When women lead, society thrives, and whatever you put in the hands of women succeeds, because they have the well-being of the people at heart.” She called on South Sudanese citizens to challenge these outdated views, underscoring that research consistently shows diverse and inclusive leadership leads to better decision-making and more inclusive policies.

In her remarks, Dr. Rukaya also urged the media to portray women and men equally, promoting gender-sensitive reporting and telling stories of women who are breaking barriers in fields such as ICT, engineering, and leadership across the private and public sectors.

As part of her strategic approach to women’s empowerment, Dr. Rukaya highlighted the critical role of education, confidence-building, and collaboration with men. “When a woman is educated, she is better positioned to secure a job, enter politics, or even establish her own political party,” she said, adding that young women need mentorship, inspiration, and the belief in their own potential to take on leadership roles. She encouraged young women to start their political careers early, even as volunteers, stating, “Women are leaders” and should not seek validation from others.

Dr. Rukaya also emphasized the importance of including men in the empowerment process, stating that “empowering women cannot happen in isolation from men, who are critical allies and assets.” She urged men to view women as equals, reminding them to see women as daughters, sisters, mothers, and aunts.

Reaffirming UN Women’s commitment, Dr. Rukaya declared, “UN Women stands firm in supporting South Sudan on its journey toward gender equality and democratic governance.” She emphasized the organization’s dedication to working with partners to strengthen legal frameworks that ensure an enabling environment for women to lead and thrive.

Hon. Elizabeth Enoka, representing the Deputy Governor, encouraged women to assert their rights and stand firm in their efforts to move the country in the right direction. She addressed the issue of women sometimes perpetuating anti-women narratives by underestimating their own potential, urging them to defend their abilities. Hon. Enoka further challenged women for undermining each other, particularly when vying for political positions, and called on them to support one another. She also encouraged young women to join political parties where female leadership is underrepresented, noting it might be easier to achieve high positions in such settings.

Hon. Henry Kala Sabuni, representing the HeForShe movement, emphasized that women prioritize the nation’s well-being, while men often focus on personal gain. He called on women to take bold steps and champion positive leadership, acknowledging their tireless work and integrity. “I have never witnessed a corrupt female leader,” he remarked, further validating women’s contributions to peace-building and governance.

The awareness campaign delved into the traditional and structural roots of stereotypes and anti-women narratives, challenging their existence and fostering a more supportive environment for women’s leadership. It marked a significant step toward creating a more inclusive, peaceful, and prosperous society in South Sudan.

Stakeholders gathered for a group photo during the campaign event; group1. Photo; NPC/Moses

Stakeholders gathered for a group photo during the campaign event; group2. Photo; NPC/Moses

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

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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

Radio Talk Show: A Strategic Campaign Approach

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The National Press Club South Sudan (NPC-SS) is dedicated to advancing women’s empowerment by utilizing radio talk shows as a strategic campaign tool. Through this approach, NPC-SS aims to raise awareness about women’s leadership, political participation, and involvement in peacebuilding efforts.

In South Sudan, young women encounter numerous challenges that restrict their participation in public life and decision-making processes. These challenges are often deeply embedded in cultural and social norms, where early marriage is frequently prioritized over educational opportunities for girls. The radio talk show addresses these critical barriers to women’s participation, including societal expectations, cultural limitations, and structural obstacles.

Reflecting on a baseline study conducted by NPC-SS to assess the quality and quantity of women’s participation in decision-making roles within national and state parliaments, the talk show delves into the reasons for the under-representation of women. The study identified key factors such as the patriarchal system and cultural barriers that confine women to household responsibilities, limiting their political engagement. Additionally, the lack of skills, knowledge, and confidence compared to their male counterparts further hinders their political involvement.

On the “Sundown Show” program aired on Eye Radio in August 19, 2024, Yar Ajak hosted a discussion featuring prominent guests including: Hon. Helen Ngaidok, a member of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly; Ms. Suzan Nafisia, manager of UniPod at the University of Juba; and Chief Emmanuel Juma, administrator of Dolo Payam.

Hon. Helen Ngaidok highlighted several factors that impede women’s participation in politics, such as low educational levels and early marriages. She lamented that many women in leadership roles, particularly in parliament, are either widows or single mothers who were appointed after the deaths of their husbands who were parliamentarians. She pointed out that married women often face resistance from their husbands, who feel threatened by their involvement in politics. Helen stressed the need for the government to implement the 35% affirmative action, ensuring that women have their own positions rather than filling in for their deceased husbands.

Chief Emmanuel Juma added that traditionally, girls were forced into marriage and discouraged from pursuing education. He emphasized the importance of equal empowerment, advocating for mutual understanding between husbands and wives to enable women to pursue their leadership and political ambitions.

Ms. Suzan Nafisia discussed the traditionally perceived triple roles of women, which include reproduction, social work within the community, and family care. She noted that these roles significantly limit women’s ambitions, as societal perceptions often restrict them to these duties. Nafisia also pointed out that the media’s portrayal of women exacerbates these challenges, as they are often represented based on these traditional roles. Derogatory phrases like “ita mara sakit” (meaning “you are just a woman”) or “you have someone to depend on” contribute to women feeling inferior, making them hesitant to take on public roles. Nafisia emphasized that decisions made by women are always fair and effective as they tend to prioritize the needs of the community.

The talk show was further enhanced by the comments and questions from the listenners, an indicator of the increasing reach of the strategy.

The NPC-SS is currently implementing a project titled “Women’s Leadership and Political Participation during South Sudan’s Transition Period,” funded by the Peace Building Fund through UN Women. The project includes various activities such as awareness campaigns, mentorship sessions, stakeholder workshops, and the aforementioned radio talk show, all aimed at empowering women and enhancing their participation in leadership and political processes

 

Guests in the studio of Eye Radio Photo, Eye radio

Guests pose for photo at the compund of Eye radio Photo, NPC-SS/Moses A. Edward

NPC-SS concluded a Project Inception meeting

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Malakal; July 24, 2024 – The National Press Club South Sudan (NPC-SS) yesterday, concluded a project inception meeting to commence project activities in Malakal.

The meeting between NPC-SS and state authorities aimed to create a conducive environment for the project’s success. Hon. Noama John Chol, acting Chairperson for the Women Caucus, applauded NPC-SS and UN Women, expressing optimism about the project’s impact on women’s representation in government.
Hon. Pal Ruach Duoth, deputy speaker of the Upper Nile State Legislative Assembly, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting the project, acknowledging challenges like language barriers and limited capacity building.
Ms. Nyaroun Gabriel, NPC-SS field officer, highlighted the project’s goals: enhancing women’s leadership, addressing structural barriers, and promoting gender equality. Funded by the Peace Building Fund through UN Women, the project aims to raise awareness and facilitate women’s engagement in politics.

Mr. Ochaya James, NPC-SS Executive Director, thanked the state leadership for their warm reception and emphasized achieving the project’s objectives.

NPC-SS filed officer (L), acting chairperson for Women Caucus (M), NPC-SS executive director (R)

NPC-SS team and Upper Nile State representatives in a group photo

NPC-South Sudan Concludes Mentorship Session for Young Women

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Juba, July 19, 2024 –The National Press Club – South Sudan (NPC-SS) successfully conducted a one-day mentorship workshop for young women to promote their leadership, political participation, decision-making, and peace-building efforts.

Under the theme “Promoting Conducive Environment for Women Participation in Peace-building, Leadership, and Political Process,” the event aimed to empower young women for strategic leadership and political ambitions.

Hon. Joseph Kido, Director General of the Ministry of Peace Building, emphasized the importance of the mentorship session in enabling young women to discover their potential as change agents. He highlighted the need for such programs to be extended nationwide to help women join political parties effectively.

Mrs. Delphina Roba, deputy chair of NPC-SS, noted the low representation of women in both state and national governments, citing only one female governor in ten states and no area administrator in the three administrative areas. She stressed the importance of mentoring young women to advance gender equality and address the challenges of violence against women in politics.

Over 15 young women from national and state parliaments, academic institutions, and civil society were inspired by coaching from women leaders including Hon. Lona James Elia, Justice Ajonye, and Hon. Jackline Gaza. Participants expressed optimism in overcoming challenges and some school teachers expressed interest in joining politics.

Supported by UN Women South Sudan and the Peace-building fund, NPC-SS remains committed to advancing the gender agenda.

Participants pose for group photo

Mama Lona Elia, while mentoring the young Women.