Mounting Statistics Raise Alarm
Officials in Western Equatoria State have logged 22 gender-based violence survivors this month, including seven rape cases from Ibba County, according to the state Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare.
Survivor Support Hurdles
Gender Minister Cecelia Anigunde said the seven rape survivors were moved to a child transit center in Yambio for medical care, counseling and legal guidance, but transport and food shortages hamper a comprehensive response.
John Zebruna Gasi of the ministry added that examinations were conducted with support from local NGO EVE Organization, yet operational funds remain thin across conflict-affected counties.
Calls for Justice and Prevention
Yambio Mayor Fozia Abbas Barnaba Bangasu warned that rape is a criminal offense punishable by imprisonment, pledging swift arrests to deter future incidents.
Deputy gender official Alice Sette Zungo urged residents in all ten counties to report abuse promptly, noting that festive seasons often coincide with spikes in violence.
Insecurity Fuels Hidden Crisis
Civil society activist Odetta Miwai linked the surge to lingering insecurity and displacement, stressing that many survivors remain silent through fear and limited access to police or courts.
Aid agencies caution that the documented 22 cases likely represent only a fraction of abuse occurring in Western Equatoria, where broken community structures make reporting difficult.