16/08/2026
WOMEN FOCUS NETWORK, UNHCR AND PARTNERS LAUNCH ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT PROJECT FOR MAPAW IDP WOMEN
MAPAW, SOUTH SUDAN — Women Focus Network, in partnership with the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC), UNHCR, and other humanitarian partners, has launched an economic empowerment project aimed at strengthening the resilience, self-reliance, and livelihoods of internally displaced women in Mapaw 1 and Mapaw 2.
The initiative will provide women with practical business skills training and support the formation of Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), enabling participants to save collectively, access small loans, establish income-generating activities, and build sustainable livelihoods for their families.
Speaking during the launch, the CEO of Women Focus Network, Marnaath Pur, commended the efforts and support of the National Chairperson of the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC), Hon. Stephen K. Gach, toward advancing the work of Women Focus Network.
She stated that the organization would not have reached this level without the support and encouragement of the RRC leadership. She encouraged women across Mapaw to take full advantage of the opportunity by actively participating in the business skills training and joining organized savings groups.
Marnaath Pur urged beneficiaries to acquire practical business knowledge, work collectively through savings groups, and develop sustainable sources of income that can strengthen their families and communities. She also expressed appreciation to UNHCR for supporting the initiative and creating opportunities for women in Mapaw 1 and Mapaw 2 to become more economically empowered.
Representing UNHCR, Jimmy Michael congratulated the IDP women for their commitment to learning new business skills and participating in the program. He emphasized that initiatives of this nature can help women develop sustainable livelihoods, strengthen household resilience, and work toward a more secure and independent future.
The South Sudan IDPs Chairlady welcomed the initiative, describing the empowerment program as an important starting point for women in the community. She encouraged beneficiaries to make effective use of the opportunity, remain committed to the training, and work together to achieve sustainable results.
Representatives of Don Bosco NGO said the initiative forms part of their efforts to transform communities by equipping people with practical business skills and supporting them to become more economically self-reliant.
The launch reflects the commitment of the participating organizations to supporting vulnerable and displaced women through skills development, financial inclusion, savings initiatives, and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Office of the National Chairperson
Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC)
Juba, South Sudan
