South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Simon Deng
The South Sudan Parliamentarians Network on Population and Development has pledged its full support for nationwide campaigns on family planning and contraception.
Majur Babur, the chairperson of the network in the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, said that lawmakers are committed to raising awareness and addressing challenges such as unwanted pregnancies and other health issues that continue to negatively affect women across the country.
This parliamentary support arises from the recognition of family planning as a human right that improves women’s health, enhances economic development, and contributes to sustainable development goals.
Babur reiterated the parliament’s commitment to conducting campaigns aimed at reducing unwanted pregnancies and addressing issues that adversely impact women’s health.
“Our role here in the parliament as a network is to raise general awareness, and we are now dedicating ourselves to this cause. We are not shying away from any responsibility, as the assembly represents the will of the people,” said Babur on Friday during the celebration of World Contraceptive Day.
Gillian Butts-Garnett, the Program Specialist for the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), remarked that the celebration serves as a strategic call to action that aligns with UNFPA’s efforts in South Sudan and globally.
“Around the world, nations that invest in family planning and youth empowerment experience demographic dividends, fewer dependents, a healthier and better-educated workforce, and accelerated development. South Sudan has this opportunity if it acts boldly,” said Butts-Garnett.
Emmanuel Kuku, the program officer for the African Youth and Adolescent Network (AfriYAN), announced the official launch of a continental campaign aimed at promoting family planning and sexual and reproductive health.
“We are focusing on increasing the availability, visibility, and advocacy of family planning. We are engaging the government and policymakers, while also seeking renewed momentum for family planning,” said Kuku.
Taban Luka Guya, Chief Whip for the National Agenda at the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, indicated that the parliament is prepared to approve bills related to sexual and reproductive health.
Guya revealed that the parliament will tackle harmful practices such as child marriage by addressing the root causes of inequality within communities. He added that they will also promote gender equality and provide comprehensive sexual education in schools.
“As we approach recess, all members of parliament will actively participate in campaigns and awareness initiatives on family planning and contraception-related issues within their constituencies,” said Guya.
“We are aware that many bills are still pending, and all ministries are eager to table the necessary bills urgently. The parliament will enact essential legislation related to sexual and reproductive health,” he stated.
World Contraception Day highlights the importance of reliable access to contraception, allowing individuals to choose whether or when to have children, thereby reducing unplanned and unwanted pregnancies.
The World Contraception Day, celebrated annually on September 26 and organised with the support of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), is being marked under the national theme titled “Investing in Our Future: Harnessing Demographic Dividends Through Family Planning.”
