The Institute of African Studies hosted a talk titled “South Sudan: Struggles for Peace & for Gender Equality” on Sept. 23, where issues of war and women came to the forefront.
The speakers were Tag Elkhazin, an independent consultant operating under Subsahara Centre with over 25 years of experience working throughout Africa, and Riya William, a South Sudanese native and civic education officer with the Mundri Relief and Development Association. She also holds the position of president of Play for Peace in South Sudan.
Elkhazin talked about the regional dynamics of the war situation in East Africa.
“We’ll talk a little bit about resilience. Resilience enables [South Sudan] to deal with catastrophes,” he said.
By the beginning of Elkhazin’s speech, almost all the chairs in the room were filled.
Elkhazin said the peace and stabilization goals of South Sudan include legitimate politics, security, justice, economic foundations, revenue, and services.
William was up next and gave a speech on the terrible situation women in South Sudan face. One example is the high fertility rate, which is at 5.01 compared to Canada’s, which is 1.6.
“As a South Sudanese woman, I have no rights to tell my husband ‘I want two children.’ If he wants ten, I have ten. Otherwise, he will continue marrying other women,” William said.
Another important message in her speech was the lack of education for women in South Sudan. Only 16 per cent of women are educated.
“How are we expected to see change if we are not educated?” William said.
She said violence is also a large problem. A majority of South Sudanese women are victims of gender-based violence.
“What you read about in the news is only a fraction of what is actually happening on the ground. Women are raped, beaten, and forced into marriages at very young ages,” William said.
Elkhazin and William took turns answering questions and engaging in conversation with the audience.
Questions ranged from “Is there anything Canada can do to help?” to “Are there any grassroot women’s organizations in the South Sudan?”
Elkhazin said Carleton students can help by starting initiatvies to create awareness about the situation in South Sudan.
“The people must know there is an issue or problem, and the students can act as a catalyst to push the buttons of the politicians,” he said.
Elkhazin added donations in the form of supplies are much more valuable than monetary donations. The accountability and feedback of sending money is very poor, so the best thing to do is send tangible items.
“A pen, an exercise book, boots, soccer balls—they are worth something,” he said.
