Economic crisis fuels surge in gender-based violence in Eastern Equatoria – officials

TORIT – Authorities in South Sudan’s Eastern Equatoria State have raised alarm over the surge in gender-based violence (GBV) cases in 2024, attributing the rise to the country’s economic crisis and widespread food insecurity.

Dominica Idwa Vitale, the executive director of the state’s Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare, highlighted the connection between economic hardship and increased GBV incidents during an interview with Sudans Post over the weekend.

“The occurrence of GBV in Eastern Equatoria has varied trends, influenced by the situations people face. Last year, GBV rates were exceptionally high, primarily due to the looming hunger and economic crisis affecting the state and the entire country. Poor agricultural yields from the previous year exacerbated food shortages, leading to a significant rise in reported GBV cases across the state,” Vitale explained.

She expressed hope for 2025, dubbed the “year of peace,” to also become a year of reduced GBV. “When there is peace and people are satisfied, they have no reason to fight. If individuals can work productively and provide for themselves, the likelihood of conflict decreases,” she added.

Vitale acknowledged the role of partner organizations in raising awareness about GBV, which has encouraged some individuals to engage in economic activities as a way to mitigate violence.

“This year, we anticipate a reduction in GBV as more households now have access to food, and many people are beginning to understand how economic activities can help reduce violence. Women are engaging in small businesses at markets, and some men are realizing that GBV harms productivity. For instance, if someone is injured due to violence, they cannot work or conduct business, which ultimately reduces household productivity,” she said.

Vitale urged partner organizations to adopt innovative strategies that involve both men and women in GBV prevention and response efforts.

“We encourage partners to implement diverse strategies, particularly those that bring men and women together. Empowering both genders is crucial to reducing GBV in our communities,” she emphasized.

Juma Robert, the Executive Director of the Road to Economic Development Organization (REDO), highlighted his organization’s collaboration with Star Trust Organization to empower women in Magwi and Torit counties.

“We are working within the framework of the law to assist women in business. Our efforts include creating awareness about legal issues, providing training on business management, and offering financial support. Our goal is to eradicate GBV, which is a crime against women and a form of terrorism,” Robert stated.

He stressed the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to address GBV effectively.

“We are working as a consortium with a shared vision. Violence against women is an international crime, and we must unite to combat it,” he added.