Female inmates at Juba Central Prison marked International Women’s Day with an array of activities and discussions aimed at promoting gender equality and women’s rights. The event, which took place on the 8th of March 2024, was organized by the Eve Organization, anational non-profit dedicated to supporting women’s empowerment in South Sudan.

The organization generously donated essential sanitary handouts including sanitary pads, panties, and washing soaps to cater to the hygiene needs of the female prisoners, a gesture which did not only address practical needs but also symbolized a broader commitment to dignity and well-being.

Under the theme ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,’ the celebration gathered a diverse array of participants, including nine male inmates and 189 female inmates. Together with representatives from the national Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, and prison officials including Lieutenant John Jok, Acting Director-General of the national prison service, the event fostered crucial discussions on gender equality and changing societal narratives.

The event commenced with an opening prayer led by Abuna Loboka, followed by a warm welcome from the Acting Director of the female inmates. A spirited welcoming song from the female inmates set the tone for an uplifting atmosphere throughout the event. Inspirational messages from speakers resonated deeply with the attendees, emphasizing the importance of self-respect and challenging traditional gender roles.

John Jok, Acting Director-General of the national prison service, delivered a poignant message, stating, “In the Government, a woman holds a higher rank than a man, but in family settings, a man is always the head, therefore as a woman, you must respect yourself and your husband.” Such words of empowerment echoed sentiments shared by Christina Phillip, Acting Director of the female wing at Juba Central Prison, who proudly remarked, “In the military, before we do not tell a man orders, but now, I can say ‘tiba’ to a man.”

Amidst the jubilation, inmates highlighted the stark realities they face within the justice system. Evalyn Anyango, a Kenyan national serving a 10-year sentence over a minor case, emphasized the inequities of imprisonment for debt-related offenses. She poignantly stated, “Putting somebody in prison for owing someone outside does not make any difference because the person inside will not be able to pay the person outside.”

The event was part of the CAF project, a collaborative effort aimed at celebrating the achievements of women in South Sudan. International Women’s Day served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and justice.

Key objectives of the event included investing in women as a human rights imperative, addressing poverty exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, implementing gender-responsive financing, and advocating for a shift to a green economy and care society. Despite strides made, challenges persist, including delays in court hearings for petty cases and disproportionate sentencing for minor offenses.

Nevertheless, the spirit of resilience and hope prevailed as female inmates expressed gratitude for the support received from the Eve Organization and the broader community. With words of encouragement and empowerment resonating within the prison walls, the celebration of International Women’s Day at Juba Central Prison served as a testament to the enduring strength and solidarity of women everywhere.