Historically, in South Sudan, the sole objective for women engaging in agricultural activities was to feed their family. However, men migrating out of their villages for social and political reasons has resulted in the female population taking control of the agricultural activities and this has transformed women’s gender roles at the family and community level. We can now say that agriculture in South Sudan is a women's business, as they are perceived as the head of the whole agricultural supply and value chain.
On the occasion of International Women's Rights Day, AVSI publishes the study "Gender analysis: exploring successful agro-businesses to foster cooperation between genders in South Sudan" conducted by AVSI between May and July 2022, which highlights how economic opportunities, in particular agricultural activities, have favored the empowerment of women in South Sudan.
The assessment was based on the underlying premise that building social capital is a viable means of rebalancing the power relations between men and women. The main findings suggest that by being engaged in agricultural activities, women have gained a set of abilities and knowledge, such as mastering the basics of budgeting and making business by selling their products in the market, and this has given women a sense of increased agency and independence.
In addition, it has been revolutionary for women to be able to establish self-managed women farmer groups, a practice that they were never able to participate in previously, and this has undoubtedly contributed to South Sudanese women feeling more autonomous and independent.
"One must not forget - adds Bruno Nazim Baroni, AVSI Head of MEAL for Eastern and Southern Africa area - that gender equality cannot be achieved without the inclusion of the male population. Otherwise, women engaged in agriculture could be perceived simply as more valuable assets, as resources for getting food and money. Therefore, to fully transform the deeply embedded gender narratives in South Sudan, it is fundamental to raise men’s awareness on gender-based violence and peacebuilding, while also providing them with the necessary training on peaceful interaction and collaboration. Effective communication spaces and awareness campaigns specifically addressed to men will contribute to more positive gender norms and increased gender equality".
Gender analysis: exploring successful agro-businesses to foster cooperation between genders in South Sudan
The testimony of Selwa Joice, involved in an agriculture project in Juba county
Taking part in an AVSI project to increase agricultural production now allows me to support my children, not only by adding nutrients to our diet, but with the income from working as a farmer I can pay their school fees and build suitable housing. Not only that, by improving my condition I am now able to be a true asset to my community. Already in 2016, when many people in my village were suffering from hunger, I tried to distribute food to those in need. Today I feel I have a recognized role for my skills, my value. I feel the protagonist of my life, that of my family and that of the whole community.
Selwa Joice, 35, farmer involved in the AMVAT project supported by the African Development Bank (AdB) through FAO
