South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Simon Deng
Authorities in Yambio County of Western Equatoria State have introduced bylaws aimed to combat persistent cycle of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and early child marriage.
James Abdulai Aruna, State Minister of Health said on Monday during a ceremony held in Yambio town that the new by-laws will be used for guiding the youth in resolving issues related to conflict and gender based violence in the county.
“Our chiefs and local government will be able to provide clearer direction for our sons and daughters, encouraging them to invest in their future rather than engage in harmful behaviors such as drug abuse,” said Aruna.
Wakila Charles, Speaker of the State Transitional Legislative Assembly underscored the need for implementation and respect for the newly passed by-laws on GBV.
“All bills can be passed, but it is crucial for our people to respect the law once parliament approves it. We must work together to ensure these laws become practical and uphold our responsibilities as citizens,” said Charles.
Yengi Evans, Team Leader of Amref Health Africa field office in Yambio, said South Sudan has one of the highest rates of GBV globally, amid significant lack of resources and capacity to tackle gender related violence.
“From 2021, there have been 1,087 reported cases of GBV, indicating the urgent need for intervention and support services. The ongoing challenges stem from a lack of planning for the future, encouraging collaboration and community engagement in the implementation of the by-laws,” said Evans.
State Minister of General Education and Instruction, Grace Apollo said gender based violence and early child marriage have far reaching implications on education across the State.
“This law also touches on education; GBV has a direct impact on students’ ability to learn. We must begin educating our children about these bylaws to foster a better understanding of their rights and responsibilities,” said Apollo.
The event was organized by Amref Health Africa with financial support from UNFPA South Sudan country office.
