The Fight Against Forced Marriage in South Sudan

Growing up in South Sudan as a girl is fraught with challenges. The traditional customs of many communities in the region often prioritize wealth over the welfare and development of women. Families frequently marry off young girls to suitors, often much older than them, in exchange for livestock—cows, bulls, and sometimes money. The reality is grim: girls as young as 14 can find themselves facing proposals for marriage, often before they’ve even completed their education.

In South Sudan, societal norms treat young girls as commodities, valued primarily for the number of cows they might bring to their families. Many girls, even at a tender age, already have children and are expected to assume the roles of housewives, their futures predetermined. When I was in senior one, several suitors approached my father, offering up to 300 heads of cattle for my hand in marriage. The suitors often come with wealth, but for the girl, the consequences can be traumatic and life-altering.

The urgency to marry off daughters is often exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in South Sudan, where sexual violence against females has tragically become common place. Parents believe that marrying their daughters will protect them from such harm. Faced with this nightmare, I made the heart-wrenching decision to escape to neighboring Uganda, leaving behind the safety of my family in search of a better future.

In Uganda, I found refuge with a family that had also fled the war. The laws there offer a different outlook on the rights of girls. Unlike in South Sudan, where customary laws largely govern, Ugandan legal frameworks specify and protect girls from defilement and other forms of sexual violence. I could focus on my education without the constant fear of being forced into marriage. Here, I felt empowered to make choices about my own life. However, life in South Sudan still looms over me. Although I am currently able to attend school, my father and brothers are not supportive of my desire to complete my education before considering marriage. Their main concern is ensuring a dowry, as they believe my value as a potential bride is still high.

The plight of girls like me in South Sudan is ingrained in the very fabric of society. Customary laws treat girls as economic assets rather than individuals endowed with rights and aspirations. The constitution of South Sudan ostensibly protects the rights of women, but these laws are often ignored, particularly when they collide with traditional views. Article 16 of the constitution guarantees women dignity and equal rights, yet its implementation is sorely lacking. In Lakes State, the grave consequences of defying familial expectations can lead to violent outcomes. In 2020, three girls were reportedly beaten to death after refusing to enter into forced marriages. While national laws exist to address such barbarities, the lack of effective prosecution often means perpetrators evade justice, typically with minimal penalties.

I am determined to fight for my rights, but I often feel overwhelmed by the systemic structures that favor traditional customs over individual freedoms. My resolve is rooted in a desire not only to uplift myself but also to empower other girls trapped in circumstances similar to mine. In writing this, I hope to raise awareness about the plight of girls in South Sudan who live under the constant shadow of forced marriage and violence. My wish is to spark a conversation that leads to genuine change, where girls can be valued for their potential rather than as commodities.

As each day goes by, I feel the pressure mounting around me—a constant reminder of the expectation to marry rather than pursue my dreams. Yet, I am determined to continue my education and advocate for my rights, hoping to carve out a future that inspires others to do the same. If my story can help shine a light on the challenges we face, then perhaps I can contribute to a brighter future for all girls in South Sudan.