LocationsUNDP Strengthens GBV Frontline Workers Through Basic Sign Language Training
A New Dawn for Persons with Disabilities in South Sudan
January 26, 2026
GBV Frontline workers from all states and administrative areas convened in Juba for the basic sign language training
UNDP/Sarah Abraham
Introduction
In a groundbreaking step toward disability inclusion in South Sudan, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), gender mainstreaming project, in close partnership with the Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), convened a three-day basic sign language training for Gender-Based Violence (GBV) frontline workers.
Held in Juba from 20–22 January 2026, the workshop marked the first national effort of its kind to equip service providers with functional sign language skills tailored to GBV response and survivor support. Facilitated by Nila Consultancy for Disability Inclusion (NCDI), the training brought together more than 65 participants from all 10 states and 3 administrative areas of South Sudan.
Background: A Critical Need for Inclusive Services
According to a 2023 assessment on the inclusivity and accessibility of GBV and Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services in Juba, supported by UNFPA and conducted with the South Sudan Network of Persons with Disabilities, women and girls with disabilities face major barriers in accessing essential services.
The assessment revealed alarming gaps in access to health care, GBV response, education, and justice for persons with disabilities, particularly those with hearing impairments. Due to the absence of disability-inclusive systems, many survivors are unable to report abuse, seek medical attention, or access legal and psychosocial support.
The lack of a standardized national sign language framework and the limited number of trained sign language users further exacerbate exclusion.
GBV Frontline workers during small groups training
UNDP/Sarah Abraham
Opening Ceremony Highlights
Mr. Agustino Wudu Elario, Chairperson of the South Sudan Union of Persons with Disabilities, described the training as “timely, necessary, and a step in the right direction,” noting that it would significantly help bridge longstanding communication gaps.
Speaking on behalf of UNDP, Madam Natacha Kunama underscored the importance of disability-inclusive GBV services. Mr. Joseph Loro, Acting Undersecretary at the Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, encouraged participants to view sign language as a lifelong professional asset.
Closing Ceremony: A Celebration of Learning
During the closing session, participants showcased their newly acquired skills through a full play presented entirely in sign language.
UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Sheila Ngatia commended the participants, noting: “UNDP is proud to have supported this initiative in close partnership with the Ministry and with technical inputs from UNFPA. You are now ambassadors of inclusive communication.”
Hon. Nuna Rhoda Rudolf Ndefu, Minister of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind.
Voices from the Field
Charity Dennis Moga, Senior Inspector at the Gender and Juvenile Court in Juba, shared how the training equipped her with practical skills to communicate with survivors who have hearing impairments.
Advocate Garang Tong Twic, Legal Officer in Malakal, explained that the training has strengthened his ability to build trust and rapport with young survivors and support them throughout the legal process.
Conclusion
The basic sign language training represents an important milestone in advancing disability inclusion within South Sudan’s GBV response system. By equipping frontline workers with the skills needed to communicate effectively with persons with hearing impairments, the initiative contributes to more accessible, survivor-centred, and inclusive services.
The training also delivered important results, including improved communication between service providers and persons with hearing impairments, increased awareness of disability inclusion among frontline responders. In addition, the initiative supported the development of a specialized sign language curriculum for GBV frontline workers, strengthened collaboration with Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), and laid the groundwork for the establishment of a Sign Language Unit within the Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare.
The training also lays the foundation for broader reforms, including the development of a national sign language framework, strengthened partnerships with Organizations of persons with disabilities OPDs, and the institutionalization of disability inclusion within government systems.
As one participant reflected: “This training was not only about learning gestures; it was about breaking barriers, restoring dignity, and ensuring that every survivor’s voice can be seen, heard, and understood.”
