UN women launches project to boost women’s political participation in South Sudan

JUBA – UN Women on Wednesday launched a project aimed at increasing women’s engagement in leadership positions, titled “Peace and Women’s Political Participation in Leadership.”

Korto William, UN Women Representative in South Sudan, highlighted the crucial role women play in driving progress across the country during the launch ceremony in Juba.

“UN Women will strive to identify synergies and ensure meaningful coordination among partners,” William said.

“We want to emphasize our commitment to addressing social barriers that hinder women’s political participation,” she added.

The project focuses on mentoring and developing leadership capabilities for women during South Sudan’s ongoing transitional period.

It will be implemented in Juba, the Greater Pibor Administrative Area, and Malakal.

Kido Joseph, Director of Peace at the Ministry of Peacebuilding, emphasized the importance of grassroots engagement to generate public interest.

“The path towards effective leadership, gender equality, and women’s political participation is critical,” Joseph said.

“The government will continue to track the number of women holding high-level positions,” she added.

Ochaya James, Executive Director of the National Press Club, pledged his organization’s partnership with UN Women to break down barriers for women in leadership.

“We will collaborate closely with UN Women to achieve the project’s objective of dismantling barriers that impede women’s political participation and leadership in South Sudan,” James said.

James also highlighted the role of the National Press Club in raising public awareness about equal representation and the need for more women in leadership roles.