National Editors Forum Calls for Gender Equality in Newsrooms

(JUBA) – The National Editors’ Forum (NEF) has called for greater gender equality in South Sudan’s newsrooms during a breakfast meeting held in Juba. The event brought together media leaders, journalists and international partners to discuss editorial standards, content quality and responsible journalism.

The gathering included representatives from the Chinese Embassy, who joined local editors and organisations in discussions about strengthening cross-border collaboration and improving media practices in South Sudan.

Speaking at the opening of the meeting, NEF Chairperson Chuol Jany Bol said the organisation was committed to ensuring that both men and women play an equal role in shaping editorial decisions.

He said the media sector should not be dominated by men alone and stressed the importance of giving women equal space in management and newsroom leadership.

“NEF must provide equal opportunities where men and women can take part in decision making in the newsroom,” Jany said.

The meeting also emphasised the importance of editorial integrity and better management of content. Participants agreed that stronger standards were essential for the growth of responsible journalism in the country.

The Executive Director of the Association for Media Development in South Sudan (AMDISS), Ayaa Irene, welcomed NEF members and praised their efforts in pushing for better practices and fairness in media.

She said AMDISS would continue to work with the editors’ forum to improve content quality, support gender equity and build stronger partnerships both regionally and internationally.

The breakfast meeting was described in a press statement by AMDISS as an important step towards building inclusive media institutions in South Sudan, where women and men can contribute equally to shaping the country’s media landscape.

NEF Breakfast Meeting – Juba, September 2025