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Work with women continues to be central to Solidarity’s Pastoral Programme.
From 1st to 16th October 2025, a new story of hope unfolded in the heart of Western Equatoria. More than 250 women from across the five deaneries of the Diocese of Tombura-Yambio — Yambio (Central Deanery), Nzara, Ave Maria, Ezo, and Riimenze — took part in a remarkable journey of transformation. With the generous support of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, the Women Empowerment Program is helping women who once carried deep wounds of war, loss, and trauma to rediscover their strength and rebuild their lives. This program was not just about learning new skills — it was about healing, dignity, and new beginnings. It followed an earlier initiative that guided many through emotional and spiritual recovery from their painful pasts. Now, with hope rekindled, the women are learning practical ways to sustain themselves and their families. Each gathering was filled with laughter, the smell of freshly baked bread, and the joy of discovery. Participants learned the art of cookery and baking — preparing bread, cakes, and cookies — skills that many have already begun turning into small home businesses. “When I first came to the training, I still felt the weight of everything I had lost,” shared Maria from Nzara Deanery. “But as we baked together, I felt something changing inside me. I realized I could start again — and even earn something for my children’s school fees.” Grace from Riimenze Deanery said with a smile, “In the past, I never imagined I could stand in front of people and share my ideas. But this program gave me confidence and a reason to dream again.” For Juliana from Ezo Deanery, the program brought a sense of unity: “We came from different parishes, but now we are one family of women who believe in each other. We will not go back to silence — we will move forward together.” At the end of the program, the women expressed deep gratitude to the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas and to the Diocese of Tombura-Yambio for walking with them in this journey of healing and empowerment. As one participant beautifully summed it up, “They helped us find peace in our hearts — and now they are helping our hands to work again.” Indeed, what began as a journey of healing has now become a movement of hope — women standing tall, baking not just bread, but a future full of faith, dignity, and possibility. To find out more about the activities of the pastoral project, read the latest NEWSLETTER from Solidarity’s pastoral team. Please continue to support our projects in South Sudan.
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Date Published:10 November 2025 Author:Pastoral Team
Article Tags: Latest news, South Sudan, Solidarity, Pastoral services, Contribute, Trauma healing, Women’s empowerment |
