Seven GBV survivors from Ibba County receive support in Yambio

YAMBIO – Authorities in Western Equatoria State say at least seven women who survived gender-based violence (GBV) in Ibba County are currently receiving protection and support services in Yambio, amid growing concerns over rising insecurity in the state.

The State Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare confirmed that the survivors, all from Madebe Payam in Ibba County, were recently identified and registered at the Child Transit Centre in Yambio to enable them to access medical care, psychosocial support, and legal assistance.

Speaking to Sudans Post, the State Minister of Gender, Cecelia Anigunde, said the seven cases involve rape, adding that the trend reflects a wider increase in GBV linked to insecurity and displacement in parts of Western Equatoria State.

“These women were brought to the centre after being raped in Ibba County. The situation is worrying and requires urgent government intervention and stronger collaboration with partners,” Anigunde said.

She noted that while the ministry is providing counselling and psychosocial support, operations are constrained by limited transport, inadequate feeding supplies, and funding gaps, making it difficult to respond effectively across the state.

The State Director at the Ministry of Gender, John Zebruna Gasi, confirmed that all seven survivors were registered this month and have already undergone medical examinations, with support from a local partner organization operating in Ibba County.

“The seven women were supported to access health services, including medical tests, to assess their condition. The rise in GBV cases is alarming and needs collective action,” Gasi said.

A member of the Western Equatoria State Legislative Assembly representing Ibba County, who requested anonymity due to security concerns, urged women across the state’s 10 counties to report GBV incidents and called on authorities to strengthen prevention efforts.

“Rape is a serious human rights violation. We are planning awareness campaigns targeting both men and women to stop these crimes, especially during the festive season when movement increases,” the lawmaker said.

A local civil society activist, also speaking anonymously, described the cases as conflict-related abuses that deepen trauma among women and girls, calling for accountability and justice.

“These survivors need urgent protection, counselling, and material support. Perpetrators must be held accountable so that communities can begin to heal,” she said.

The Ministry of Gender has appealed to humanitarian partners and civil society organizations to reinforce GBV prevention and response mechanisms across Western Equatoria State, warning that continued insecurity could further expose women and girls to violence.