Cultural Practices Undermining Rights and Well-being Highlighted in Panel Discussion on Bride Price, Gender, and Conflict in South Sudan

By Denilson Denike

A recent panel discussion held in South Sudan delved into the complexities of bride price and its implications on gender relations, women’s rights, and societal well-being. Chief Malok Dhuol Akek defended the cultural roots of the practice, while survivor Josephine Adhieu shared her traumatic personal story of early child marriage. Gender activist Aluel Atem highlighted the societal impact of bride price on women’s self-worth, and advocate Data Gordon called for a shift towards viewing dowry as appreciation rather than a commercial transaction.

The event, themed “Brideprice, Gender, and Conflict in South Sudan,” featured insights from a study by Coventry University, shedding light on the economic, social, and political implications of bride price in the country. The report found that bride price reinforces gender norms, contributes to early marriages and violence against women, and can escalate regional conflict through pressures on men to meet societal expectations.

Recommendations from the report include holistic legal reforms and pragmatic regulations to address bride price practices, promoting marriage as an individual union rather than a family arrangement. The panel discussion, attended by experts and partners from various organizations, emphasized the urgent need to address the deeply rooted challenges stemming from bride price in South Sudan.

As outlined by Kobi Bentley of the British Embassy in Juba, bride price remains a key factor influencing the challenges faced by women and girls in the country. The discussion, moderated by UNFPA Resident Representative Dr. Ademola Olajide, highlighted the diverse perspectives shared on the pressing issue of bride price, gender dynamics, and their impact on societal well-being.