𝐖𝐄𝐂𝐒𝐒 𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐮𝐝𝐚𝐧 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

𝐖𝐚𝐮, 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐮𝐝𝐚𝐧 – 𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 – The Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA Network) today hosted a powerful awards ceremony celebrating the resilience and leadership of women human rights defenders in South Sudan.

Held both virtually via Zoom and in-person at the Universal Gab Hotel in Wau, the event brought together feminist activists, women’s rights organizations, and civil society partners to recognize three outstanding South Sudanese women who have dedicated their lives to promoting gender equality and human rights.

Among the honorees was 𝐑𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐥 𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐮, Executive Director of the Women Empowerment Centre South Sudan (WECSS), who received special recognition for her unwavering efforts to promote women’s leadership, combat gender-based violence, and foster economic empowerment across the country. Her work has been vital in amplifying women’s voices and advancing their participation in decision-making processes at all levels.

“These courageous women are not only defenders of human rights; they are also the backbone of community resilience and progress in South Sudan,” said a SIHA representative during the ceremony. “Their courage continues to inspire generations.”

The event served as both a celebration and a call to action—emphasizing the importance of sustained support for women human rights defenders who often operate in difficult and dangerous environments.

SIHA Network expressed its deep appreciation to all attendees and reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to advancing women’s rights and feminist leadership throughout the Horn of Africa.