South Sudan: Empowering Women through Farming: Mary's Story of Transformation

In the heart of Akilo Payam in South Sudan, where traditional norms often dictate life's course, a remarkable story of transformation unfolds. Mary Peter Konye, a 25-year-old mother, embodies the strength and resilience of women in her community. Historically, the norms in Pibor dictated that men solely engage in farming, leaving women marginalized in decision-making and community activities. In South Sudan, the patriarchal community often restricts women to domestic roles, while men dominate public and economic spheres. This deeply entrenched gender inequality limits women's opportunities and reinforces their subordination. However, with the support of CARE International's innovative initiatives funded by the Netherlands' Ministry of Foreign Affairs through the Dutch Relief Alliance (DRA), Mary's life and the lives of many others have been profoundly changed. 

Mary and her husband illustrated farming techniques, in their farm, to a CARE Staff. CARE International in South Sudan/Kenyi Evans

Mary woke up at dawn each day, her hands calloused from labor, her spirit weighed down by the relentless demands of balancing farming and household chores. "I used to feel like I was carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders," Mary recalls. This not only drained her physically and emotionally but also perpetuated gender-based disparities in her community. Women like Mary are burdened with overwhelming responsibilities, limiting their productivity and excluding them from crucial decision-making processes. 

 

Mary's journey has been marked by profound challenges. She got married at the age of 15, and though she and her husband, Peter Joseph Konye, who is now 36, are both uneducated, their resilience is unwavering. Mary is survived with her 15-month-old child, Arbino Peter Konye, while two of her children tragically died of sickness. The family does not own any cattle and relies on humanitarian assistance from SSJR consortium partners and wildlife for survival. 

 

Recognizing these challenges, CARE International in Sudan, under the South Sudan Joint Response (SSJR) project, conducts gender-based violence (GBV) prevention awareness programs supported by GBV response services aimed at empowering women like Mary. The project addresses critical problems relating to physical and mental well-being, strongly reinforcing protection throughout the program, both integrated within other sectors and as a separate sector. These integrated interventions focus on humanitarian assistance across sectors such as GBV, food security and livelihoods, and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene). These programs emphasized the importance of equal participation in farming and household activities. Couples were encouraged to work together, challenging traditional taboos that restricted women's roles. 

 

Mary's life transformed as she embraced the principles advocated by CARE International. With newfound support from her husband, Peter, they began farming together. "Now, my husband and I share the work, and our farm is thriving," Mary says with a smile. This collaborative approach not only defied societal norms but also inspired other men in the community to follow suit. Mary's increased participation in household decision-making improved family dynamics and strengthened their household food security. 

 

Looking ahead, Mary envisions a future where every woman in Akilo stands shoulder to shoulder with men in the fields, their joint efforts leading to a thriving, equitable community. "I dream of a community where women and men work together as equals," she says, her eyes shining with hope. Her story serves as a beacon of hope, urging others to embrace change for the betterment of future generations. Mary's journey exemplifies the transformative power of education and community engagement. By challenging traditional practices and promoting gender equality, CARE International continues to empower individuals like Mary, paving the way for inclusive development and sustainable change in Akilo Payam. 

 

Through the SSJR project, funded by the Netherlands' Ministry of Foreign Affairs and implemented by a consortium including Help a Child (HaC), Across, and Zoa-Dorcas, CARE International's initiatives in the Greater Pibor Administrative Area are set to create a lasting impact, targeting the three Payams of Akilo, Gumuruk, and Verteth. This collaborative effort aims to ensure value for money while delivering humanitarian assistance to persons affected by crises.