Promoting a safe, responsive sexual reproductive health rights environment for girls and women in Juba, South Sudan Project

Empowering Minds, Transforming Communities: The Journey of Daniel Juma

Daniel Juma Charles

Figure 1 – “HIV/AIDS does not discriminate; it can infect anyone,” quote by Daniel Juma

In Bombo South, Rajaf Payam, Daniel Juma Charles emerged as a beacon of empowerment amidst the challenges faced by women and girls in South Sudan. As a participant in project titled:  Promoting a safe, responsive sexual reproductive health rights environment for girls and women in Juba, South Sudan, led by Jamnel Care Organization, Daniel embodied the spirit of learning and advocacy, eager to make a difference in his community. The project, fueled by the urgent need to address barriers to Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR), aimed to ignite awareness and drive policy change through education, advocacy, and media engagement.

“My name is Daniel JUMA Charles, and I attended the training with Jamnel Care Organization from the first day to the final day,” he began, his voice resonating with gratitude and determination. With each word, Daniel’s recounting of his experience during the SRHR training painted a vivid picture of empowerment and enlightenment.

“During the SRHR training, we were taught about our body rights, especially women and girls,” Daniel shared, his words infused with a newfound sense of awareness. “Women have the right to equality in work, just as men do,” he emphasized, underscoring the importance of gender equality in achieving reproductive health rights.

As Daniel delved into the topics covered during the training, his passion for advocacy and change shone through. “We learned about body changes that happen to both women, girls, and boys, so we get to know our bodies and our rights too,” he explained.

In recounting the lessons on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Daniel’s tone turned somber yet resolute. “GBV occurs mostly in homes, especially among married women,” he reflected, highlighting the devastating impact of domestic violence on families and communities. “It causes suffering among children, which is not good for us,” he lamented, underscoring the need for awareness and intervention.

In discussing HIV/AIDS, Daniel’s message was one of prevention and responsibility. “If you have HIV/AIDS, seeking medication is crucial to prevent transmission,” he emphasized, dispelling myths about the disease. “HIV/AIDS does not discriminate; it can infect anyone,” he stated firmly, echoing the importance of knowing one’s status and practicing safe sex.

As Daniel concluded his reflections, his gratitude to Jamnel Care Organization was noticeable. “We thank Jamnel Care Organization for the SRHR training, which has empowered us to educate others in our community,” he expressed, “I have learned a lot and am ready to spread the message to my fellow community members,” he affirmed, embodying the spirit of empowerment and change.

In Daniel’s journey, we find the embodiment of resilience and determination, and as he carries forth the lessons learned, Daniel stands as a catalyst for change, inspiring others to join the movement towards a brighter, more equitable future for all.