JONGLEI - As South Sudan approaches its first democratic elections, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) is supporting all efforts to ensure the preparations and processes are inclusive of all voices.

As part of this effort, the mission facilitated a two-day workshop in Bor focused on empowering women's associations to lead and participate in gender-responsive constitution-making and electoral processes, highlighting the importance of increasing women's representation in public service and governance roles.

Elizabeth Mac, a women’s peace and security taskforce leader, emphasized the urgent need for action.

“The peace agreement explicitly stipulates women’s active engagement within the government. Yet, we are falling short. I urge parliamentarians to implement the 35% quota system fully, in both letter and spirit,” she stressed.

The 60 participants demonstrated their eagerness to engage, not only as voters, but also as aspiring election candidates.

“The discussion opened my eyes to how women can assert their rights. I am inspired, not just to vote, but to galvanize my constituency, elect a candidate, and mobilize resources for her campaign,” stated Mary Anai Akuei, Chairperson of the Baidit Women’s Association.

Nyalela John Chuol, the State Minister of Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, highlighted the need to change attitudes and perceptions towards women.

“We have identified key barriers to women's participation in governance, such as limited access to information, cultural beliefs, stereotypes, and insecurity. We must unite and challenge the traditions that confine us to domestic roles,” Chuol said.

Participants called for reforms to ensure laws are gender-responsive and recommended grassroots capacity building, the establishment of county-level offices for women’s associations, increased female representation on electoral panels, and stronger collaboration with support groups.