Almost half of the 195 countries in the world do not allow women to purchase or own private land. As we have seen throughout the last several centuries, land ownership is necessary for economic growth and is a strong catalyst for a strong economy, national equality, and personal independence.
The Student’s Organization for Liberty and Entrepreneurship (SOLE), an Atlas Network partner in Yambio, South Sudan, is working to create national awareness about the cultural practices and laws that prevent women from owning private property in the East African country.
Over the last 9 months, SOLE has spread the message of equality through radio and television talk shows, highlighting the negative impact of systemic, state-sanctioned sexism in their country. Training sessions were also held throughout the nation, attracting over 700 women, to educate the public on the importance of equality and land ownership.
Similar to many other nations in the region, women in South Sudan face challenges purchasing or owning private land, which has disproportionately impacted their opportunity for economic and personal growth. SOLE hopes that by training and teaching the South Sudanese people about the negative impacts of this sexism, both men and women, they can shift public opinion.
SOLE believes that impactful reform will emerge by first educating the population and creating a climate for change. They plan to continue holding regular training sessions around the country when the COVID pandemic passes while continuing to broadcast their message through paid, earned, and social media.
Atlas Network supported SOLE with this initiative with a Joining Up to Minimize Poverty grant.
