Sexual assault remains a pervasive threat for women in South Sudan, with many victims struggling to access essential support services. In this challenging environment, some organizations are turning to technology to bridge the gap and provide aid effectively, despite issues like low internet connectivity and high illiteracy rates.
In South Sudan, women living in displacement camps face the constant risk of sexual assault. A 28-year-old mother of four experienced this harsh reality when she was attacked by armed men while collecting firewood. This incident highlights the significant barriers to accessing support, as she found clinics closed or was turned away due to lack of resources. Her story isn’t isolated; many women in these camps share similar experiences of silence and fear.
Despite a peace agreement intended to end civil conflict, countless people remain in displacement camps in Juba. The fear of sexual violence deters women from leaving these camps, especially when they need basic necessities like firewood. Here, services are limited due to reduced aid and insufficient government investment, leaving many without access to medical care or psychological support.
A new solution is being tested by an Israel-based organization that launched a chatbot on a popular messaging platform. This technology allows survivors to share their tales anonymously, providing instant notifications to social workers, thereby shortening response times. This initiative, although faced with challenges like data privacy and distrust of technology, has reported over 135 cases in just a few months.
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However, the effectiveness of technological interventions is hindered by South Sudan’s low mobile and internet penetration. With less than a quarter of the population having access to mobile phones, many individuals also lack literacy skills necessary to navigate these technologies. Thus, the solution must consider audio components or other low-tech adaptations that suit this environment.
Moreover, cultural stigmas surrounding sexual assault further complicate these efforts, making it difficult for victims, particularly young girls, to seek help. The societal norms requiring them to obtain permission to leave home intensify their despair. Technology, while promising, needs to be adapted to local conditions and backed by reliable internet access and trust-building measures to truly make a difference.
While technological solutions offer hope, they must be adapted to fit the realities of South Sudan. Addressing cultural stigmas, ensuring data privacy, and improving internet access are essential steps in making these methods effective in supporting sexual assault survivors.
