South Sudan Women’s Research Network

When Women Sing: How Murle women use arts and cultural mediums to communicate

This research explores how Murle women in the Greater Pibor area of central eastern South Sudan use not just songs but dance, hairstyles, body marks and beads to express themselves. Its objective is to draw attention to the ways Murle women make their priorities known. These ways are used by Murle women in rural areas […]

Effectiveness of Women in Politics and Improving Gender Equality in South Sudan

This report argues that, in order to improve women’s participation in politics and promote gender-responsive policies in the country, there is a need to enlarge government capacity for women’s leadership by introducing equal gender quotas for decision-making positions. Summary Women’s participation in politics is an important measure of gender equality in a country, one that […]

Podcast: SSWRN | Women in Research: Reflections and Analysis on South Sudan

On Monday, 27 May 2024, the South Sudan Women’s Research Network (SSWRN), supported by the European Union, held a forum to launch and discuss research conducted by early career researchers involved in the project. This two-part podcast series captures the highlights and key presentations from the event. Part 1 features introductions by Amina Abdulkadir, Mark […]

Podcast: SSWRN | Research Outputs | Mary Adut Achiek

In this episode of Rift Valley Radio, brought to you by the Rift Valley Institute, Catherine Patrick from the South Sudan Women’s Research Network (SSWRN) engages in a compelling discussion with Mary Adut Achiek, an early career researcher from the first SSWRN cohort. Mary shares her research on the historical and evolving roles of women […]

Girl Child Blood Compensation Practice among the Lotuko in Eastern Equatoria State

Girls and women in South Sudan face numerous barriers and challenges: customary law often denies women the right to own land, girls’ access to education remains precarious and harmful traditional practices continue to place women and girls at risk of gender-based sexual violence. In South Sudan the traditional practice of blood compensation for murder is […]

Hidden Figures: Women navigating a culture of exclusion in peace and conflict resolution processes

This report examines the roles of women in peace and conflict resolution processes in South Sudan. It highlights how women navigate systemic exclusion and use cultural practices like songs and dance to assert their voices and influence decisions. Despite historical gender norms restricting their participation, women have made significant contributions to peacebuilding. The report emphasizes […]

Beyond the Surface: 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 […]

Seeking the Meaning of Traditional Healing and Spiritual Protection among the Faratit communities in Wau, Western Bahr El-Ghazal State

South Sudan’s healthcare system faces significant challenges, particularly in rural areas where access to clinical services is limited and costly. Many South Sudanese turn to traditional healers who use herbal medicines and spiritual methods due to a lack of affordable clinical care and mistrust of formal medical facilities. Recognizing the importance of these traditional practices, […]

Women in Research: Reflections and Analysis on South Sudan

On Monday 27 May 2024, the South Sudan Women’s Research Network (SSWRN), supported by the European Union, will launch two reports written by early career researchers involved with the project. Kiden Sawala Laki will share the findings of ‘Beyond the Surface’ which looks at the transition from subsistence fishing to commercialization and the realities of women’s […]