Government urged to protect women with Disabilities against GBV

By Jenifer James 

The Chairperson of the Association of Persons with Visual Impairment in South Sudan, Rebecca Thuom Mabil, has called on the transitional unity government to do more to protect women with disabilities against gender-based violence (GBV).

“Women with disabilities in South Sudan have gone through a lot, facing numerous challenges,” Mabil said during the launch of awareness raising campaign during 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence which is marked annually in Juba.

Mabil said that several women with disabilities are often seen as invisible or insignificant in their communities, adding that awareness-raising campaign will put their plights into the spotlight.

She noted that the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) entails the government to provide protection to persons with disabilities in the country.

 The 16 Days of Activism against GBV runs from 25th November until 10th December, 2024.

Mabil explained, emphasized the importance of non-discrimination against persons with disabilities.

She said that Article 7 of the CRPD calls for the right of women with disabilities to live independently and without fear of violence.

“Women should not fear gender-based violence but instead stand firm, knowing they are protected by international laws,” Mabil said.

Mabil urged women with disabilities not to feel powerless or neglected by society, adding that both the African community and South Sudanese women’s groups are standing firm to protect them from gender-based violence.

“If you feel like you are suffering, seek out the nearest association or community that can help. You are welcome and support is available,” she said.

Mabil urged women to remain strong and resilient, encouraging them to become advocates for others.

“When you stand firm, you can help raise other women with disabilities and show them they are not excluded from the community,” she said.