Unraveling the transition from subsistence fishing to commercialization and the realities of women’s participation in fishing markets

This report examines the impact of local fishing practices on women’s livelihoods in Lake State, South Sudan. It highlights the transition from traditional fishing to market-oriented fishing and the resulting economic opportunities and challenges for women. Despite historical gender norms restricting women’s participation, fishing has become a crucial source of income and empowerment for many women. The report emphasizes the importance of supporting women’s involvement in the fishing industry through policy, training, and community initiatives to enhance economic stability and gender equality.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kiden Laki is a South Sudanese academic and consultant committed to community empowerment, advocacy, and scholarship. She is a lecturer at the University of Juba, South Sudan. Her consulting work spans a wide range of areas, including economic development, climate change, gender, and safeguarding from sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment.

SOUTH SUDAN WOMEN’S RESEARCH NETWORK
This report is a product of the EU funded South Sudan Women’s Network (SSWRN), which provides research grants, training and mentorship to early career female researchers in South Sudan. The project aims to ensure that women’s perspectives are included in the research and decision-making on development issues in the country.