Ezo County, in Western Equatoria State, has been heavily affected by cycles of conflict and inter-communal violence, particularly since they escalated in 2021. During these clashes, conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) was systematically used as a weapon of war to terrorise communities and forcibly displace civilians. The UN Human Rights Division documented gang rapes, abductions and sexual violence against minors, some as young as 13.

This violence has left deep physical, psychological and social wounds. Many survivors face trauma, stigma and rejection by their communities, with little access to medical and psychosocial care, legal aid or the livelihoods they need to rebuild their lives. Because of under-reporting driven by shame and fear, the true scale of CRSV in Ezo is likely far higher than recorded.

→ 80 women and girl survivors of sexual violence (direct beneficiaries)

→ Around 1,200 indirect beneficiaries

Implemented by REDO (Road to Economic Development) and supported by Stand Speak Rise Up!, the project restores the dignity, self-reliance and resilience of survivors of sexual violence and children born of rape in Ezo. It combines vocational training, equipment and psychosocial support to open sustainable pathways to economic independence and social reintegration.

• Deliver market-relevant vocational training (tailoring, carpentry, catering, agriculture, hairdressing) to 80 survivors and young mothers;
• Provide start-up kits and business management training to launch income-generating activities;
• Facilitate market access by supporting the creation of survivor-led cooperatives;
• Strengthen psychosocial wellbeing and reintegration through counselling, peer groups and community