Innovative Approaches to Combat Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in South Sudan
The ICRC and SSRC are actively addressing sexual and gender-based violence in South Sudan through football and drama initiatives, raising awareness and reducing stigma. In 2024, they reached over 5,000 people and directly supported survivors. The organizations emphasize the importance of community discussions and support for victims to combat negative stereotypes and promote healing.
In South Sudan, innovative strategies are being implemented by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the South Sudanese Red Cross (SSRC) to tackle the pressing issue of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). Through engaging activities like football and drama, these organizations aim to increase awareness and combat the associated stigma.
During a notable February afternoon, a football tournament uniquely addressing SGBV took place in Lainya, South Sudan. Local teams, Downtown and Blue Star, played against each other in an environment where many community members, including educators like Simon Meskin, emphasized the significance of raising awareness about the risks women face while undertaking daily tasks, such as fetching water.
The ICRC and SSRC organized community outreach sessions reaching over 5,000 individuals across nine locations in South Sudan in 2024, explicitly focusing on SGBV awareness. Additionally, they provided essential support to approximately 36 survivors of sexual violence, assisting with mental health care, cash assistance, and training for medical personnel in Upper Nile and Central Equatoria regarding the clinical management of rape
As the football match unfolded amidst lively discussion, health workers conveyed critical information about the immediacy of medical treatment needed within 72 hours after an assault. James Juma, a local journalist, underscored the necessity of amplifying knowledge on this urgent issue via local media platforms.
Prior to the match, SSRC volunteers engaged thirty community members in a discussion aimed at breaking the stigma surrounding sexual violence. Through a thought-provoking presentation contrasting victim-blaming scenarios, they encouraged community members to consider the ramifications of such harmful perceptions.
As highlighted by Charles Bahari, an SSRC volunteer, the imperative remains for communities to offer support to, rather than stigmatize, survivors of sexual violence. Within South Sudan, prevailing taboos often inhibit open discussions, leaving survivors to fear reporting their experiences.
Despite the challenges posed by pervasive violence and stigmatization, positive change is emerging. Utilizing sports and arts as mediums for communication, the ICRC and SSRC work towards transforming social attitudes, fostering an environment where survivors of SGBV are treated with dignity, and stigma is progressively dismantled.
The concerted efforts of the ICRC and SSRC in South Sudan fundamentally aim to address and reduce sexual and gender-based violence through innovative strategies like sports and arts. Their approach emphasizes increasing community awareness, advocating for survivor support, and challenging harmful social norms. These initiatives signify a positive shift in mindsets and underscore the importance of collective responsibility in fighting against sexual violence.
Original Source: www.icrc.org
