(JUBA) – The Minister of Trade and Industry, Atong Kuol Manyang, has appealed to women across South Sudan to work together and support each other in leadership and business as part of efforts to strengthen national development.
Speaking during the National Conference on Women, Peace and Security held in Juba last week, Minister Atong urged women to build solidarity rather than competition among themselves. She said unity among women is key to achieving social and economic progress in the country.
Minister Atong expressed concern that divisions and negative perceptions among women often slow down collective progress.
“As women, we are enemies of our own. And I’m not just talking out of what I hear. It is what I know,” she said. “In some cases, when women are placed in top positions, others tend to exaggerate issues and speak negatively about them instead of offering support.”
She encouraged women to adopt a culture of encouragement and mentorship, especially in workplaces and public institutions, saying such an approach would promote long term national stability and economic empowerment.
Minister Atong also commended President Salva Kiir Mayardit for appointing women to high government offices, including Vice Presidents and the Speaker of the National Parliament. She described these appointments as proof of the government’s trust in women’s leadership abilities.
However, she noted that some women in leadership positions often face unnecessary criticism from their peers.
“I know of cases where women in government positions are envied by others who want the same role. For example, as Minister of Trade and Industry, some think that this position belongs only to women, yet there are many other opportunities available,” she said.
Atong emphasised that women’s advancement in politics and business is not about replacing men but about contributing to a more balanced and inclusive society. She said empowering women to take part in leadership, entrepreneurship, and trade would boost productivity and help South Sudan achieve economic growth.
The minister concluded by calling on women’s groups, civil society, and the private sector to work closely in creating mentorship networks, training programmes, and platforms for collaboration among women traders, business owners, and community leaders.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Event | National Conference on Women, Peace and Security |
| Location | Juba, Central Equatoria State |
| Date | Last week (October 2025) |
| Key Speaker | Atong Kuol Manyang, Minister of Trade and Industry |
| Main Message | Women should support and uplift one another to strengthen national growth |
| Concern Raised | Negative attitudes and competition among women in leadership positions |
| Government Action Praised | Appointment of women as Vice Presidents and the Speaker of Parliament by President Salva Kiir |
| Call to Action | Promote mentorship, cooperation, and shared opportunities among women in business and governance |
| Relevance to Trade and Industry | Encouraging women’s participation and unity enhances productivity and economic progress |
| National Impact | Strengthened women’s networks could drive inclusive growth and sustainable development in South Sudan |
