The contribution of non-governmental organisations in promoting women’s participation in Yambio, Western Equatoria-South Sudan

Abstract

Existing evidence shows that women’s representation in governance and politics in South Sudan remains limited despite constitutional and international commitments. Nevertheless, little empirical research has examined how Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs) contribute to women’s participation at the local level, particularly in Yambio, Western Equatoria State. This study, therefore, examined the contribution of NGOs in promoting women’s participation in Yambio, guided by feminist theory and social dominance theory, which together explain how structural inequalities and cultural hierarchies restrict women’s access to political spaces. Using a case study design and a mixed-methods approach, the research collected and analysed data from 174 women in governance and political roles through surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions. The findings reveal that gender equality programs, such as promoting quotas and replacement mechanisms for women candidates, are central among NGO contributions. Key impediments to women’s participation include a lack of formal education, limited political information, and male-dominated party structures that devalue women’s voices. Making laws that support work–family balance, prohibiting workplace discrimination, and eliminating violence against women emerged as the most viable strategies to address these barriers. The study concludes that NGOs contribute significantly to advancing women’s political participation, though limitations remain in funding and institutional advocacy. It recommends strengthening grassroots advocacy, enhancing women’s civic and political training, and promoting gender- responsive policies at institutional levels to ensure sustained progress.