IGAD Mobilises Male Champions to Transform Community Support for Women’s Land Rights in Magwi County

October 3, 2026 (Magwi County, Eastern Equatoria State, South Sudan): The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), through the Building Women’s Economic Resilience for Sustainable Peace (BWERSP) Project, has concluded a two-day training for male champions in Magwi County, aimed at promoting Women’s Land Rights as a means to strengthen their economic resilience.

The training brought together male champions and women leaders to deepen their understanding of the challenges women face in accessing, using and controlling land, while equipping them to support positive change within their families and communities.

Opening the training on behalf of IGAD, Dr Addis Teshome, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Expert in IGAD’s Agriculture and Environment Division, highlighted the important role of men in creating more equitable communities.

“Male champions play a vital role in advancing women’s land rights by promoting fair and inclusive land governance practices, supporting the peaceful resolution of land disputes, and challenging discriminatory norms and practices within their communities.”

Over the two days, participants examined social and cultural norms that can limit women’s participation in land-related decisions. They also explored practical approaches to promoting inclusive governance and resolving land disputes peacefully.

The training emphasised the role of male champions in driving change through advocacy and community dialogue. With strengthened knowledge and practical tools, participants can help foster dialogue, challenge discriminatory practices and encourage greater participation of women in decisions affecting land, livelihoods and household wellbeing. The conclusion of the training marks an important step in taking these lessons into families and communities. By engaging men as partners and advocates, BWERSP supports locally driven efforts to create more inclusive systems and transform customary leaders into champions of positive change.