South Sudan Women's Social and Economic Empowerment Project-SSWSEEP MGCSW

South Sudan’s Ministry of Gender Advances Women’s Empowerment with Landmark Infrastructure Agreement
Juba, South Sudan – April 25, 2025
In a major step toward gender equality and women’s economic empowerment, South Sudan’s Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare (MGCSW) has entered into a landmark agreement with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) to construct essential infrastructure aimed at supporting women and girls.
The agreement, signed as part of the South Sudan Women's Social and Economic Empowerment Project (SSWSEEP), will facilitate the construction of the MGCSW headquarters and a safe house in Juba, along with two Women’s Economic Community Centres (WECCs) in Wau and Torit. These facilities are designed to enhance service delivery, provide inclusive spaces, and strengthen institutional capacity for the protection and empowerment of women and girls.
The SSWSEEP, originally established through an agreement between the Government of South Sudan and the World Bank in June 2022, underscores a strong commitment to gender equity and sustainable development.
During the signing ceremony, SSWSEEP Project Manager Timothy Yobuta emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating, “This agreement signifies the commencement of critical infrastructure projects that will support women’s social and economic advancement. The ministry headquarters, safe house, and WECCs will serve as foundational spaces for empowerment, ensuring access to resources and entrepreneurial opportunities.”
Hon. Esther Ikere Eluzai, Undersecretary of MGCSW, echoed these sentiments, calling the agreement a “historic milestone” and reaffirming the ministry’s dedication to addressing gender-based violence and fostering economic opportunities. “These centers will provide essential services, not only for women and girls but also for men and boys who are survivors of gender-based violence,” she noted.
UNOPS Service Support Manager Buruktawit Metiku Woldegiorgis reiterated UNOPS’ commitment to facilitating the successful implementation of these activities. “UNOPS is proud to support the Ministry in delivering safe and empowering spaces for women and girls throughout South Sudan,” she stated.
The Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare extended its gratitude to stakeholders and partners, recognizing their ongoing contributions to the success of SSWSEEP. The agreement reflects a shared vision for economic inclusion, institutional development, and a more secure future for women and girls across the nation.

Celebrating a Milestone for South Sudan Women’s Empowerment!

The Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare held a successful validation workshop at Pyramid Hotel for the research conducted by IPSOS as part of the South Sudan Women’s Social and Economic Empowerment Project (SSWSEEP).

At the event, Ms. Regina Lullo, Director General for Social Welfare, reaffirmed the ministry’s dedication to promoting gender equality and economically empowering women to support their communities. She highlighted the longstanding tradition of women in South Sudan working together, saving money, and supporting each other—essential practices that help maintain family well-being and prevent violence.

Lansanah Wonneh, UN Women’s SSWSEEP Program Manager, proudly announced that this validation marks a significant milestone in our SSWSEEP journey. Our research on Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) is a crucial component of the project, and we aim to make a meaningful impact by building on existing research.

Clinton Amaji, representing the Project Management Unit (PMU), emphasized the pivotal role VSLAs play in achieving SSWSEEP objectives. VSLAs empower women in leadership and provide a platform to address harmful gender roles.

Our research covered 241 VSLA groups across the country, engaging 1,058 individuals. The validation event was attended by officials from the national and state governments, UN Women, women’s groups, and VSLA members.

Minister of Gender launches a comprehensive assessment of the social work force in South Sudan.

Juba, South Sudan – October 9, 2024 – In a significant move to bolster the social welfare system, the Minister of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare, Hon. Aya Benjamin Warille, has officially launched a comprehensive capacity assessment of the social work force. This initiative aims to evaluate and enhance the skills and capabilities of social workers across the nation.

The assessment will entail a thorough examination of social workers' current competencies and operational capacities, pinpointing areas that require further training and resources. The goal is to ensure that social workers are well-equipped to support vulnerable populations and improve the overall effectiveness of social services.

The World Bank and the government of South Sudan have signed an agreement worth $70 million to implement a project that aims to empower women and girls while also strengthening the ministry of gender.

We expect the initiative to benefit at least 450 members of the Ministry's human resource force, and the findings will inform the creation of capacity development plans. This effort is part of a broader strategy to enhance the effectiveness of social services and ensure that social workers are well-prepared to meet the needs of the communities they serve.

With funding from the World Bank Group, the ministry is implementing the South Sudan Women's Social and Economic Empowerment Project (SSWSEEP). Hold the Child, in partnership with the Christian Agency for Peace and Development (CAPaD), and the University of Juba is conducting the assessment on behalf of the ministry.