South Sudanese Women Intellectuals Forum-SSWI

10/05/2026

The South Sudanese Women Intellectuals Forum proudly congratulates Hon. Adeng Malual Leek on her appointment as the Undersecretary of the National Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare.
This historic appointment reflects her exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to human rights, and her long‑standing dedication to advancing gender equality, child protection, and social welfare in South Sudan.

Hon. Adeng Malual Leek is a distinguished human rights defender, peacebuilding advocate, and civic engagement specialist with over a decade of impactful experience across the humanitarian, development, and governance sectors. She has consistently championed women’s rights, strengthened civic space, and amplified the voices of marginalized communities in conflict and post‑conflict settings.

From 2022–2025, she served as the Civic Engagement Program Manager at Nonviolent Peaceforce, leading national and regional initiatives to protect civil society actors, women leaders, youth groups, journalists, and human rights defenders. Her leadership brought direct protection programming to high‑risk areas such as Yei, Malakal, Wau, and Aweil, often reaching communities where few organizations could safely operate.

As the former Executive Director of SSWEN, she managed an $800,000 EU‑funded project addressing gender inequality and GBV, led national dialogues on the Transitional Constitution, and strengthened women parliamentarians through UNMISS‑supported capacity‑building programs. She also contributed to the establishment of the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing (CTRH) as a Technical Committee Member.

Her regional and international experience includes serving with distinction at the African Union Commission’s Directorate of Internal Audit, participating in IGAD peace processes, including as an IGAD Observer during the South Sudan peace talks, and representing South Sudan on global platforms such as the European Union Parliament and the Government of the Netherlands. Her research contributions have supported institutions including the HORN Institute and IGAD’s ICEPCVE.

A Chevening Scholar, Hon. Adeng Malual Leek holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management from the University of Essex and a bachelor’s degree in History, Economics, and Political Science from Christ University in India. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Human Rights at the University of Sussex.

Her appointment marks a significant milestone for South Sudan. Her vision, integrity, and deep commitment to justice and inclusion will undoubtedly strengthen national efforts to protect and empower women, children, and vulnerable communities.

The South Sudanese Women Intellectuals Forum celebrates this achievement and stands proudly beside her as she continues to inspire a new generation of women leaders.

10/05/2026

The South Sudanese Women Intellectuals Forum would like to congratulate these phenomenal South Sudanese women for their wins at the 2nd edition of the Thamani Africa Awards:

H.E. Rebecca Nyandeng De Mabior - Lifetime Achievement Award
Hon. Rebecca Joshua Okwaci -Voice of the people Award
Hon. Esther Ikere - Outstanding Principal Secretary
Zabib Musa - Humanitarian Leadership
Juba De Star - Rhythm of Africa (in collaboration with Spice Diana)

The Thamani Africa Awards was created to honour and celebrate women who have excelled in different fields and to bring women from across the continent together.

We are proud of their accomplishments and contributions to the progress of the women of South Sudan and the South Sudanese people.

Thank you for representing South Sudan on the continental stage. Congratulations once again to these phenomenal South Sudanese women.

Photo credits Nyadak Maya Ajawin and Juna De Star

10/05/2026

On this Mother’s Day 2026, we proudly honor Hon. Akuot Sarah Dut, a woman whose resilience, courage, and unwavering spirit embody the true strength of South Sudanese mothers and widows.

This year, she endured the heartbreaking loss of her beloved husband. Even in the midst of profound grief, she has remained a steady pillar for her children and a source of hope for the many young people and vulnerable communities who look to her for guidance. Her ability to rise, even when life has tried to break her, is a testament to her extraordinary character.

A survivor of the war in Abyei, Hon. Akuot rebuilt her life with remarkable determination. She returned to school after years of disruption, overcame every barrier, and successfully graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Procurement and Logistics Management, a powerful reflection of her perseverance and purpose.

Her leadership and advocacy have made her one of the most respected members of the South Sudanese Women’s Intellectuals Forum, where she was honored with the Youth Award for her outstanding service and impact. She has championed youth rights, spoken boldly on environmental and health issues, and contributed meaningfully to peace and innovation efforts across the country.

Today, she leads as the Executive Director of Women Voices of Hope for the Vulnerable and continues to stand firmly for women, youth, children, widows, and the vulnerable.

Happy Mother’s Day, Hon. Akuot Sarah Dut. Your resilience lights the way, and your strength continues to inspire us all.

09/05/2026

29/04/2026

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Labanya Margaret Mathya Ugila upon her appointment as the National Minister of Trade and Industry. Before this new role, she served as the Director for Corporate Affairs at the National Communication Authority (NCA).

17/04/2026

Congratulations Ms. Zabib Musa Loro on being recognized in the Time 100: The 100 Most influential People of 2026.

Your contributions do not go unnoticed. Thank you for representing South Sudan on the world stage.

Congratulations once again!

15/04/2026

Today we celebrate Dr. Mary William Adhil Dau Chan, who completed her PhD at 66 years old after returning to a dream she began over 40 years ago. Her accomplishment reflects discipline, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the value of education. A truly inspiring example of lifelong learning.

Congratulations! We are proud of you.

11/04/2026

The South Sudanese Women Intellectuals Forum proudly congratulates Anita Kiki Gbeho on her appointment by the UN Secretary‑General António Guterres as the Special Representative for South Sudan and Head of UNMISS.

Ms. Gbeho has recently served in South Sudan as Deputy Special Representative, where she led humanitarian coordination, advanced peacebuilding initiatives, and strengthened engagement with communities across the country. Her leadership, professionalism, and deep understanding of South Sudan’s context make her appointment a meaningful milestone for the nation.

We extend our warmest congratulations and wish her success as she assumes this important responsibility.