By Ijoo Bosco
A three-day workshop in Torit is focusing on strengthening women’s voices and improving communication on sexual and reproductive health across Eastern Equatoria State.
The workshop, under the theme “TRUST: Women’s Voices, Midwifery Leadership for Resilient Health,” brings together government officials, health workers, media practitioners, and gender stakeholders.
Organised by the Association for Media Development in South Sudan (AMDISS) in partnership with the Canadian Association of Midwives, Farm Radio International, and Canada, the meeting is developing a culturally appropriate radio program on women’s health, gender equality, and reproductive health rights.
The Eastern Equatoria State Minister of Information and Communication urged the media to help break cultural taboos surrounding sensitive health issues.
The minister said lack of open discussion and accurate information can contribute to preventable deaths, high healthcare costs, and other social challenges.
He called for increased public education, particularly among young people, and encouraged communities to seek professional medical advice rather than relying on misinformation.
State Director General for Health, Dr. Amin Gordiano, also urged journalists to report sexual and reproductive health issues accurately and in language that communities can understand.
He stressed the importance of greater women’s participation in health communication and called for protection of health workers and respect for their rights.
AMDISS Advocacy and Communication Manager Juma Peter Maya said the workshop was designed to allow communities and media practitioners to shape radio program content.
Participants are expected to identify myths, misconceptions, and cultural barriers affecting access to reproductive health services while developing appropriate terminology in English, Juba Arabic, and local languages.
Organizers say the initiative could produce at least 15 radio program aimed at addressing health misinformation, reducing stigma, and increasing community awareness of sexual and reproductive health rights.
The workshop is expected to conclude with program ideas and materials that will continue educating communities across Eastern Equatoria through radio.