Juba, South Sudan – As the world marks International Women’s Day, CARE South Sudan call for sustained and practical action to address the rising levels of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) across South Sudan, particularly in the context of ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis.
Women and girls in South Sudan continue to face alarming risks. According to UNFPA, South Sudan records one of the highest prevalence rates of Gender-Based Violence in the region, with conflict, displacement, economic hardship, and weakened protection systems significantly increasing women’s exposure to violence, exploitation, and abuse.
“Gender-based violence is not inevitable, it is preventable,” said James Akai, Country Director of CARE South Sudan. “We cannot accept a reality where conflict and crisis continue to endanger the dignity and safety of women and girls. International Women’s Day must be more than a moment of recognition; it must be a call to action for lasting solutions.”
Acknowledging that important efforts are already underway in parts of South Sudan, CARE South Sudan reiterates its call for stronger, coordinated action to prevent and respond to gender-based violence by expanding survivor services, ensuring safe reporting and justice, and investing in women’s economic empowerment, because when women have income and financial power, their safety, voice, and resilience are strengthened.
“When women are safe and economically empowered, communities become more resilient and peaceful,” Akai added. “Protecting women’s rights is not only a moral responsibility, but also essential for sustainable development and stability.”
At CARE South Sudan, women are at the center of everything we do — not only on International Women’s Day, but every day. Through programs that strengthen economic empowerment, protection systems, and community leadership, CARE works to ensure women have the resources, safety, and voice they need to thrive.
As the country continues to navigate complex humanitarian challenges, CARE South Sudan reaffirms its commitment to standing with women and girls, advocating for their rights, and working with communities to build a future free from violence.
Women’s rights cannot wait. Action must continue beyond International Women’s Day.
For follow ups and clarifications, contact:
Garang Abraham – Senior Communication Consultant
Email: Garang.Abraham@care.org; Tel: +211922583372
About CARE South Sudan
CARE South Sudan, operating since the 1970s, is a major international NGO focusing on health, nutrition, food security, and women’s empowerment, reaching hundreds of thousands with emergency aid and long-term development projects. Key initiatives include cholera response, combatting severe malnutrition, protecting women from violence, and implementing climate-smart agriculture in regions like Unity, Jonglei, and Eastern Equatoria.