Abstract

This intervention study examines the persistent deficit in women's substantive participation in formal political processes in post-conflict South Sudan. It investigates how entrenched patriarchal norms and institutional barriers marginalise women's political agency, notwithstanding constitutional guarantees. The research assessed the efficacy of a multi-faceted, culturally situated programme (2021–2026) designed to enhance women's political knowledge, skills, and networks. A rigorous mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating quantitative surveys with 450 women across three states and qualitative data from focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with participants, community leaders, and political stakeholders. The intervention featured structured leadership workshops, mentorship pairings with incumbent female councillors, and established community advocacy forums. Results demonstrate a statistically significant increase in participants' political self-efficacy and civic knowledge. Analysis revealed that sustained peer networks were a critical factor in building resilience against socio-political pushback. However, structural barriers within political parties persisted. The study contends that locally embedded, skill-based interventions can cultivate a more robust pipeline of women political actors, contributing to inclusive governance. It concludes that sustainable advancement necessitates complementary, high-level advocacy for institutional reform, proposing a replicable model for similar post-conflict contexts.

Key Points