U.S. Ambassador to South Sudan, Michael J. Adler. (Photo: Courtesy).

The U.S. Government has called for an end to sexual and gender-based violence saying the future success of South Sudan depends upon the treatment, status, and rights of women and girls.

In a statement to Eye Radio’s newsroom, the US government says it joins the people of South Sudan in celebrating International Women’s Day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.

This year’s United Nations theme is “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality.”

On this note, the U.S. Government says it is committed to achieving gender equality in all spheres of life, including innovation and technology in South Sudan.

“The future success of South Sudan depends upon the treatment, status, and rights of women and girls.  There must be respect for women’s and girls’ rights and an end to sexual and gender-based violence and other violations of their rights,”  said the U.S. Ambassador to South Sudan Michael J. Adler.

“Women and girls deserve the opportunity to play a full and equal role in society, politics, and the economy, as well as in building peace and security,” he added.

On her part, the US Agency for International Development Mission Director for South Sudan Kate Crawford said “No nation can reach its full potential without empowering women and girls.”

According to Crawford, “USAID is supporting women and girls in South Sudan to realize their rights and reach their potential, including their essential role in helping South Sudan achieve lasting peace at the grassroots and national levels.”

USAID is known for its diverse initiatives that empower women and girls, including expanding their access to education, health care, clean water, and sanitation; providing girls and women training on income-generating livelihoods; supporting women’s role in civil society; and helping prevent and respond to gender-based violence.