South Sudan warns of rising digital abuse against women, girls

JUBA – The Deputy Minister of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services, David Yauyau, has warned that digital violence is a real and devastating form of gender-based abuse.

Speaking during the celebration of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence at Rainbow Ground on Tuesday, Yauyau stated that women and girls are increasingly subjected to online harassment that often extends into their offline lives.

“We have a clear responsibility; the regulatory framework must evolve to meet this new threat. We must regulate platforms of abuse, and we must ensure that digital education includes robust training on online security, cyber protection, and reporting,” said Yauyau.

Pelle Enarsson, the European Union ambassador to South Sudan, said the digital space presents new risks, including online harassment, cyberstalking, misinformation, and exploitation of women and girls.

“As the digital world develops, many laws are needed to safeguard its practices. We urge the government to enact laws to protect data and safeguard online privacy to maximise the positive effects of digital development,” said Enarsson.

Anita Kiki Gbeho, the United Nations Humanitarian and Resident Coordinator in South Sudan, appreciated the government for putting in place comprehensive measures to address gender-based violence and conflict-related sexual violence.

“The goal is clear; with national leadership, we can strengthen prevention, prosecute perpetrators, and enhance support for survivors. Data on GBV shows us clearly that gender-based violence remains one of the greatest barriers to peace, eroding trust and fracturing communities,” said Gbeho.

She stated that currently, South Sudan is facing several overlapping crises: conflict, floods, economic strain, and the impact of people fleeing Sudan. Together, they act as force multipliers of violence, weakening community protection and putting more than 10 million people at risk.

“As technology expands across South Sudan, we must ensure that it becomes a tool for empowerment and not exploitation, and that those who cause harm are held fully accountable.”

Sarah Cleto Hassan Rial, the Minister of Health, who represented the Minister of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, said the launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is meant to protect women against digital abuse.

“Every day, young women and girls face online harassment, threats, bullying, blackmail, and non-consensual sharing of private images. Many of us, the women and girls, suffer silently,” said Rial.

She called on all people to commit to a South Sudan where every woman and every girl can participate online without fear, where social media becomes a tool of empowerment rather than oppression.

Anna Tazita, the Executive Director of Women for Change, revealed that digital platforms have become tools for exploitation and abuse, particularly against women and girls across the country.

“Gender-based violence is not just a women’s issue; it is a human rights issue. We call upon the government, women-led organisations, partners, communities, and individuals, especially men, to join hands in ending all forms of violence, including the rising trend of digital abuse and exploitation,” said Tazita.