South Sudan is a Country that is affected by both conflicts and natural disasters such as floods. Coupled with traditional harmful practices, this puts women and girls at risk of gender-based violence and other sufferings based on their gender.

With the flooding in Bentiu which affected an estimate of 220,000 people, women and girls had become more isolated and their movement is limited due to fear of sexual violence, harassment and indiscriminate attacks. With a patriarchal type of society, public spaces are largely occupied by men and women responsibilities are confined to the household. Crisis has changed these roles where women find themselves working and becoming breadwinners, they nevertheless, remain responsible of the household.  

UNFPA in collaboration with the State Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, and partners established the Women and Girls Friendly Spaces (WGFS). The WGFS have important skills-building and livelihood components that facilitate women’s meaningful participation in public life.

“We must remain committed in combatting harmful practices and norms that subordinate women and girls and keep them away from fulfilling their potential and growth as individuals alongside their male counterpart. Skills-based, formal vocational trainings and other income generating activities are critical to support the Women’s access to the labor market” said Hon. Aya Benjamin Warrille, Minister of Gender, Child and Social Welfare

“Sweden will continue to stand firms with the people of South Sudan in promoting their safety, health, and well-being especially for those who are most vulnerable. With what we have witnessed here, the establishment of WGFS helps reduce and prevents risks by providing safe entry point for services and access information. Safe spaces can be a keyway of building women and girls social assets. I reiterate Sweden’s support” Mr. Tomas Brundin, Head of Embassy of Sweden in South Sudan

“I appreciate the leadership of the Minister and every partner for the steady hand in providing support and protection to the women and girls of South Sudan. Safe gatherings give them an opportunity to engage with each other, rebuild community networks and support. UNFPA will continue to equip and expand WGFS to benefit more people” Dr Ademola Olajide, UNFPA Representative

The women and girls have also received training on diverse income generating activities, including baking bread, liquid soap production, and knitting, among others, and provided with start-up kits. The WGFS have further provided a platform for engagement with duty bearers such as police officers, paramount chiefs, community chiefs, women leaders, youth leaders and the block leaders on their roles in GBV prevention and response.

UNFPA will continue to ensure that safe spaces are available, accessible and provide information, quality services, and contribute to the healing, well-being and empowerment of women and girls