Juba’s women of steel

For the women of Juba, south of Sudan, priorities have recently shifted. No longer are their roles limited to looking after a husband and home.

Women’s roles are being redefined—and a new image is being created—because of divisive socio-political issues.

“Previously, a woman didn’t have a place in society,” said Esta Ptrato, a housewife. “Our fathers didn’t care about us as much because, at the end of the day, they knew a daughter will be married off and not be his financial responsibility.”

However, that is not the case today. Southern Sudanese women are proving that they can face all adversities with strength and skill. They have joined ranks in the military and are expanding into fields of education; they are proving themselves to be professionals—and are establishing their own identities.

“The difference between today’s women and their previous generation is education. A modern woman is educated, thus more aware of health issues that may affect her or her children,” said Akual Biyonik, a local broadcaster. “But there is still a gap in awareness between rural women and those from metropolitan areas.”

In the wake of South Sudan’s opting for independence from the overall entity of Sudan, Juba’s women seem to be more energized, spirited, and confident of participating in social and political affairs. They want their voices heard.
“There’s a growing increase in competition with men, especially in the education sector,” said Mrs. Ptrato, with a smile that reflected a sense of pride. “More girls are attending school and instead of staying at home, they are pursuing higher education.”

Southern Sudanese women like to refer to themselves as women of steel. They have transcended traditional barriers and they are no longer the shunned genders, whose lives are limited to the confines of their homes. Whether they find the opportunities for greater employment and for participation in political decision-making remains to be seen.

(This story originally aired on Al Arabiya television with correspondent Bibio Sharello. Noora Faraj translated this report. She can be reached at [email protected].)