The government of Sweden has expressed deep concern over sexual and gender-based violence in South Sudan.
Ambassador Hans Henric Lundquist says it is a serious issue which needs to be prevented.
He spoke shortly after signing a contribution agreement worth thirteen million US Dollars.
The contribution aims at supporting UNFPA’s programs of sexual and reproductive health and rights for three years.
Ambassador Henric calls for action against sexual gender-based violence in the country.
‘I’m also concern about many cases of sexual based violence in the country {South Sudan} and these must be prevented and action has to be taken. And with this program {UNFPA’s Programme}, we can also work with public awareness but all cases have to be investigated and action has to be taken. This is serious and very important’, he reiterates.
UNFPA Deputy Representative, Dr Wilfred Ochan says their programs aim at ending gender-based violence and child marriage in South Sudan.
‘Our programs aim at ending GBV and child marriage. We want to reduce by five percent by the three years’ time frame, from forty five percent, to twenty percent in terms of child marriage prevalence. We would also like to roll out center as a multipurpose service point for people and survivors of GBV, health and psychosocial, medical legal services. The other aspect is to increase the maternal health and make sure there is a midwife at any birth’ he stresses.
UNFPA Country Director, Dr Mary Otieno says the signing of the agreement with the government of Sweden demonstrates continued commitment to the sexual and reproductive health and rights.
‘The signing of a new agreement with Sweden, demonstrate their continued commitment to the sexual and reproductive health and rights and well-being of the people os South Sudan, especially the most vulnerable women, girls and young people’. She said.