Gender Equality critical in realizing development in South Sudan, UNFPA

The Country Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Ademola Olajide on Thursday called on the government to end gender inequality in order to realize inclusive development.

 “We must listen to the voices of young people and young people in all their diversity young people with disabilities and also most especially young women, we must create a community that is equal when it comes to gender opportunities,” Olajide told journalists during celebration to mark World Population Day in Juba.

He said all societies derive their strength on the capacity of individuals within them.

“Population is not about numbers, it is about the people and so no nation can develop beyond the quality of the people itself,” Olajide said.

World Population Day was celebrated under the theme: “Unleashing the power of gender equality, youth and peace, enhancing the voices of young people to build the nation conducive for all ages.”

The 2021 population estimation survey put the country’s population at 12.4 million, of which over 72 percent are youth.  

Majur Babur Ajang, Chairperson of the South Sudan Parliamentary Network on Population and Development, said the government is committed to end gender inequality across the country.   

“We have our own commitment as a country, the issues to do with gender equity, youth empowerment, women empowerment, and some harmful practices which are hindering the development of our population,” Ajang said.