Women and girls dance during a GBV campaigns in Eastern Equatoria State - Photo credit: Roots of Generation

Just a year ago, many survivors of Gender-Based Violence in several counties of Eastern Equatoria State suffered in silence.

Fear of stigma, shame, and discrimination kept them from speaking out or seeking help. Many endured abuses alone, worried about being judged by the very communities they lived in.

Today, that silence is slowly breaking, thanks to a local organization, Root of Generations (ROG), which has been supporting GBV survivors on their path to safety and justice.

Awareness activities shift attitudes

With support from the Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA), ROG launched community awareness campaigns across the state.

The activities focused on addressing harmful traditions, reducing stigma, and encouraging survivors to seek help through reporting.

As part of its work, the organization strengthened reporting mechanisms by introducing confidential channels, establishing or improving police desks, creating community-based focal points, and expanding its community care program.

ROG also trained frontline workers, case managers, community leaders, volunteers, and law enforcement personnel on GBV handling and responding effectively.

Building trust and safe spaces

Trust-building became a key part of the program. ROG created safe spaces and survivor-centered services to encourage disclosure.

This includes a Child Corner at the Women and Girls Friendly Space (WGFS), which supports child survivors and provides a welcoming environment for families.

These changes have made reporting easier and safer; and survivors are now more comfortable coming forward.

Awareness efforts uncover hidden cases

ROG said the intensive sensitization efforts helped survivors recognize abuse and seek help earlier.

This shift is reflected in the data: reported cases rose from 497 in 2024 to 507 in 2025, a 2% increase.

The data shows that intimate partner violence more than doubled, rising from 146 to 317 cases, while sexual violence increased from 36 to 65. Forced or child marriage cases grew from 47 to 90.

Newly documented categories were also recorded in 2025, including 34 cases of economic coercion and property grabbing and 6 cases of widow property dispossession.

Why increased reporting is a positive sign

Root of Generations says the rise in reports does not mean GBV is increasing. Instead, it shows that the communities are aware and open to reporting.

The organization notes that the increase reflects greater understanding of GBV among communities, reduced stigma, more accessible reporting channels, improved trust in services, and stronger intervention programs.

Separating prevalence from reporting

ROG stresses the importance of distinguishing between how much GBV occurs and how much is reported.

As trust and awareness grow, more hidden cases are documented, giving a clearer picture of the real situation on the ground. This helps in planning stronger prevention and response measures.

What comes next

To sustain progress, the organization recommends strengthening reporting systems, ensuring continuous support for survivors, and maintaining community engagement.

In the long term, ROG plans to expand prevention programs, push for stronger laws and policies, secure sustainable funding, and build partnerships for a coordinated GBV response.

A step forward and a call to action

ROG says the rise in reported cases is a sign that survivors are gaining confidence and communities are opening up.

The organization believes the progress must continue and is calling on government, donors, civil society, and communities to work together to strengthen protection systems and support survivors.