By Alan Clement
Young South Sudanese women have been urged to break cultural barriers and engage in politics, as a fellow youth warned their exclusion from decision-making threatens the country’s democratic progress.
At a recent youth engagement forum, Susan Alfred, a young entrepreneur emphasized that women’s voices are indispensable in shaping policies, elections, and the ongoing constitution-making process.
Susan stated that cultural norms, early marriages, and domestic responsibilities often deter women from political participation, while limited access to education and financial resources further compounds the challenge.
“Politics is for everyone, whether you are a woman or a man,” said Susan Alfred, a participant in Friedrich Ebert Stiftung’s Political Mind program.
Even when women attain leadership roles, societal attitudes frequently undermine their legitimacy. “Women must be part of every decision-making process,” she added.
Susan’s sentiments were echoed by Alimure Ali Awuda of Friedrich Ebert Stiftung who challenged participants to be bold and proactive.
“What men can do, women can do better. We have very many role models in this country,” he said.
He urged young women and the Generation Z to seize opportunities rather than wait for them to be handed down. “This is not the time for saying we are future leaders. The future is now. Any minute after this minute is already future,” Alimure emphasized.
Spotlighting the importance of mentorship, capacity-building, and digital engagement in empowering youth, Giovanna Maiola, Democracy Reporting International’s country representative, encouraged young people to take ownership of initiatives designed for them.
“I don’t like when vintage people like me tell young people what to do… it should be your program,” she said, urging Generation Z and Alpha to leverage technology for civic and leadership engagement.
Speaking to reporters, Jackson Lado of YMCA South Sudan highlighted the inclusion of marginalized youth, particularly those with disabilities, stressing that “inclusion is most important because everyone’s voice matters.”
He also urged youth to reject violence and focus on peacebuilding and national development. Lado added, “Let us stay away from anything to do with war. Let us be united. Let us work for something that will bring peace and development in South Sudan.”
Susan concluded with a strong call for young women and youth to be informed, proactive, and fully engaged in political processes, including the upcoming elections and constitutional review.
“Their participation is essential to building a democratic, inclusive, and peaceful South Sudan,” she concluded.