Conference Raises Stakes
In Juba, a three-day Women, Peace and Security conference gathered officials, activists and donors to evaluate two decades of gender commitments and chart fresh action for South Sudan’s fragile peace.
Opening the forum, Ministry of Gender representative Joyce Ayoub warned that visibility without agency risks becoming symbolic décor rather than substantive power for women.
Policy to Practice Gap
Ayoub asked whether women occupying uniforms or offices truly steer decisions, pressing ministries to measure influence instead of headcounts.
She urged a pivot from drafting strategies to funding programmes that strengthen skills, networks and authority across all government levels.
Financial and Political Roadblocks
Speakers repeatedly linked limited budgets, restricted credit and gender-based violence to the slow climb toward the constitutional 35 percent quota.
“We cannot claim equality if women negotiate peace while worrying about rent,” Ayoub stated, urging banks and donors to design products tailored to female entrepreneurs.
Civil Society’s Coordinated Push
YWCA Executive Director Modi Mbaraza highlighted inconsistent implementation of Resolution 1325 and called for tighter coordination among civil society, security forces and provincial administrators.
She maintained that progress must be counted in land titles secured, bills amended and survivors protected, not in conference photographs.
Eyes on 2026 Elections
Oxfam coordinator Sharon Mairyunu urged frank debate on ensuring women can campaign without intimidation as the 2026 vote approaches.
She noted rising online harassment and demanded stronger digital safety laws alongside rapid response units for physical threats.
A 25-Year Resolution Tested
The gathering marked 25 years since the UN enshrined women’s role in peacebuilding, a milestone participants said must inspire measurable gains before the next WPS review.
Delegates left Juba vowing to track budgets, mentor candidates and report violence, promising that forthcoming assessments will focus on influence, not invitations.