By Jacob Bol

The Jonglei State government and its partners on Tuesday commemorated the International Women’s Day at the Police Ground in Tibek, under the theme, “Empowering women and girls to promote equality, safe and healthy environment.”

Speaking during the ceremony, Susan Sesay, the Gender Advisory for the UNMISS Bor Field office said the day focuses on recognising women’s achievements and promoting gender equality.

 “It also serves to evaluate the gains women have registered so far, the opportunities to maximise, the challenges that lie ahead and call on state and non-state actors to renew commitment to a gender-equal future.”

“The International Women’s Day fosters global solidarity among women from diverse backgrounds, encouraging discussions on policies and social norms that impact their lives,” Susan added.

She urged all male gender equality champions to firmly stand by women and girls to deconstruct the structures and systems that hold women back from equal participation.

Meanwhile, the Secretary-General at Jonglei Civil Society Network, Manyang James Anyang said celebrating the International Women’s Day reminds them of the power of resilience and contributions of the women and girls in the society.

He described it as a moment to reflect on the progress made, acknowledge the challenges ahead and most importantly to take action to accelerate change.

“Let us commit to accelerate the action to build a better world through cooperatives and empowering women and girls by discouraging the violence and promoting girls’ education,” James said.

He called for actions to build a better world through cooperatives, and empowering women and girls for a safer, healthier future.

“A society that values and supports its women is a society that prospers.”