AFRICA/SOUTH SUDAN-Challenges and threats that the women in the South of Sudan face every day

Juba (Agenzia Fides) - According to the "Small Arms Survey," an annual study that provides information on the spread and use of weapons in the world, the main threats for women in the South of Sudan derives from multiple factors, including serious deficiencies in the health sector, poor economic opportunities and access to food and gender equality, rather than by armed conflict they live in the country. At home, where in theory the situation should be more secure, women are facing many challenges. A married woman in childbearing age is likely to get pregnant at least once every three years until menopause, and one in seven dies during pregnancy or during delivery. In addition, because of polygamy, the risk of diseases increases. They suffer domestic violence and widows are particularly vulnerable, because of lack of public safety networks that protect them. Another serious problem is caused by hunger, high food prices increase the pressure within families already in distress. (AP) (Agenzia Fides 23/01/2012)