South Sudan’s survivors of conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) have reiterated their demand for support and justice for the victims.
The call was made during the Survivors’ Empowerment Journey conference’s national talks, which were conducted in Juba.
The two-day event, hosted by the Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare with UN and civil society partners, marked the culmination of an 18-month project empowering 200 survivors across four regions.
Through integrated medical, psychosocial, legal, and economic services, the project aimed to rebuild lives and restore dignity.
“We are not just telling stories—we are building futures,” said one survivor, calling on the government and donors for sustained support.
Beyond survivor care, over 10,000 community members were reached through awareness campaigns, including the “Know Your Laws” radio initiative to combat stigma and educate on CRSV-related protections.
Esther Ikere, Undersecretary at the Ministry, emphasized the conference as a milestone for reflection and action.
She highlighted the program’s multisectoral model and its rare focus on economic empowerment through business training and livelihood support.
“The road to reintegration starts with economic independence,” Ikere said, adding that the project informed provisions now included in the new anti-gender-based violence bill soon heading to Parliament.
UN Action’s Sheila Keetharuth called the project “a powerful journey of solidarity and learning,” noting its trauma-informed care, justice mechanisms, and survivor-centered design.
She underscored the intergenerational impact of CRSV, especially on children born of rape.
As South Sudan approaches the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict on June 19, the message is clear: survivor voices must guide policy.
“This trauma ripples through generations,” Keetharuth said. “Ending CRSV is a foundation for peace, justice, and sustainable development.”
