Eastern Equatoria women appealed to the Government to end using girls for blood compensation and early marriage to promote gender equality and empowerment.
In an open forum on Wednesday in preparation to International Women’s Day, women expressed concerns over challenges they undergo due to rights abuse, Emmanuel Radio reported.
Davidica Kaikai, one of the women in the forum said most girls were forced out of schools and used for compensating deceased relatives.
She added that some young girls were forced to marry at an early age by constructional postholders who should protect them from the abuse.
Ms Kaikai appealed to the state government to enact laws that governs rights of women and girls.
State Governor Louis Lobong Lojore admitted that some communities still practice blood compensation.
He added that women and girls’ rights were greatly abused due to some existing cultural beliefs and practices.
The Governor vowed to end the practice saying it intimidates, undermines girls’ rights and hinders them from pursuing their education.
Governor Lobong discouraged women from alcohol consumption to avoid increased violence in families.
International Women’s Day is always observed on March 8 to celebrate women economic, social, cultural and political achievements around the globe.