-South Sudanese women end learning visit in Liberia
By Jerromie S. Walters
South Sudanese women representatives who were part of a recent learning visit to Liberia say the trip delivered a wealth of knowledge and they are leaving with renewed minds. With the knowledge gained in Liberia over the last few days of their visit, the delegates emphasized the importance of civic awareness and engagement in the lead-up to elections, as well as the prevention of Violence Against Women before, during, and after electoral processes.
Delivering the delegation press statement over the weekend, Dr. Angelina Bazugba, Director/Dean of the Transformational Leadership Institute, University of Juba, highlighted the pivotal roles played by electoral management and constitution-making bodies, underscoring the crucial support required from various stakeholders and donors.
She said they learned about innovative approaches and strategies utilized by women and youth organizations to overcome structural barriers to women’s participation in public life. They also explored the tactics employed by civil society groups to advocate for gender-sensitive policies and the inclusion of women in decision-making positions.
The team acknowledged the persistent challenge of violence against women, encompassing physical, sexual, verbal, and cyber harassment during the electoral process. They stressed the imperative need for collaborative efforts involving communities, governments, and partners to create a conducive environment for women’s full participation as both voters and candidates.
Expressing gratitude to the Liberian government, the UN family, and all involved stakeholders for their support, the South Sudanese representatives affirmed their commitment to addressing vital issues crucial to achieving lasting peace and democracy.
Drawing strength from the warm hospitality and camaraderie experienced during their visit, the delegation extended appreciation to all stakeholders for providing an invaluable learning opportunity. They voiced their determination to apply the insights gained to enhance their preparations for the upcoming 2024 elections, expressing hope for a united Africa where peace and democracy prevail.
From March, 25h to 29th 2024, the South Sudanese women representatives from the Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA), Political Parties Council, Judicial Reform Committee, National Transformational Leadership Institute/ Academia, the National Press Club, and Civil Society Organizations including the South Sudan Women Coalition, Women Bloc, and Centre for Inclusive Governance, Peace and Justice participated in an experience sharing mission in Liberia.
The mission was organized by UN Women’s Country Offices in South Sudan and Liberia with funding from the government of Norway to exchange knowledge with different Liberian counterparts on Transitional Reform and elections processes, strengthening women’s movement, political participation, and use of Temporary Special Measures to attain gender equality.
While in Liberia, the delegation met with the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, National Elections Commission, Ministry of Justice, United Nations Country Team (UNCT), Women Legislative Caucus, ECOWAS Commission to Liberia, Liberia Elections Observation Network (LEON) and Civil Society Organisations promoting inclusive political participation.
The team also met with the Women’s organizations and Women NGO’s Secretariat of Liberia and the Liberian Women Mass Action for Peace.