Juba Teen’s Rape in Sherikat Sparks National Outrage

(Juba) – The Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare has strongly condemned the recent sexual assault of a 16 year old girl in Sherikat, a residential area in Juba.

The attack reportedly committed by a group of more than six boys has shocked the nation and prompted calls for urgent action from authorities and the wider public.

Speaking during a press conference on Thursday, Minister Aya Benjamin Libo Warille described the assault as a “horrific and unspeakable act of violence” that has deeply wounded not only the victim and her family but the conscience of the country.

The Minister expressed both sorrow and outrage, calling on all South Sudanese to stand in unity against such brutality.

“This is not just a crime against an individual,” said Minister Aya. “It is a crime against our values, our future, and our collective humanity. The perpetrators must be brought to justice swiftly and decisively.”

The Minister emphasized that such acts of violence are a severe violation of human rights and threaten the safety and dignity of women and girls across South Sudan.

She urged law enforcement agencies to prioritize the case and conduct a full investigation to ensure that those responsible face legal consequences.

“Our law enforcement agencies must act with the utmost urgency,” she stated. “All those involved in this crime must be held accountable.”

The minister also pledged her Ministry’s full support to the victim and her family. She reaffirmed a commitment to collaborate with law enforcement, community leaders, and civil society groups to address the root causes of violence against women and girls.

In her remarks, the Minister called for preventive action, including stronger legal protections, victim support systems, and nationwide public education campaigns to promote respect, gender equality, and non violence.

“We must create a culture of empathy and zero tolerance for violence. Education and awareness are essential,” she said. “We urge parents and community leaders to actively participate in changing attitudes and protecting our children.”

The Ministry also launched a public appeal, asking South Sudanese citizens to remain alert, report abuses, and support victims without stigma or fear. The Minister said it is a shared responsibility to create a safe environment, especially for the country’s youth.

Online, the Ministry’s statement has been accompanied by hashtags such as #StopRapeNow, #ViolencePrevention, and #LeaveNoOneBehind, part of a broader campaign to end sexual violence in South Sudan.

The assault comes following growing national and international concern over gender based violence in the country.

Rights groups have consistently highlighted the need for reforms in law enforcement, judiciary systems, and public awareness to combat rising cases of abuse.

The victim is reportedly receiving medical care and psychological support.

Many are now calling for immediate improvements in security and community protection systems, as well as a national conversation on gender based violence.