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By Emmanuel Garjiek
JUBA, March 9 — CARE South Sudan has called for urgent and sustained action to combat rising cases of gender-based violence (GBV) across the country as the world commemorates International Women’s Day.
In a statement issued Monday, the organization warned that women and girls in South Sudan continue to face serious risks due to ongoing conflict, displacement, economic hardship, and weak protection systems. According to United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the country records one of the highest prevalence rates of gender-based violence in the region.
The Country Director of CARE South Sudan, James Akai, said gender-based violence is preventable and should not be accepted as a consequence of conflict or crisis. He stressed that International Women’s Day should serve not only as a moment of recognition but also as a call for concrete action toward lasting solutions.
CARE South Sudan urged stronger and coordinated efforts to prevent and respond to GBV by expanding survivor support services, ensuring safe reporting mechanisms, strengthening access to justice, and promoting women’s economic empowerment.
Akai noted that empowering women economically can enhance their safety and resilience, adding that protecting women’s rights is essential for sustainable development and long-term stability.
The organization reaffirmed its commitment to supporting women and girls through programs focused on economic empowerment, protection systems, and community leadership. CARE South Sudan said it will continue working with communities and partners to promote a future free from violence.
CARE South Sudan, which has operated in the country since the 1970s, implements programs in health, nutrition, food security, and women’s empowerment, reaching hundreds of thousands of people through humanitarian and development initiatives.
