A 14-year-old girl, identified as Gum, was severely beaten by her brother in Rumbek North County, South Sudan, for delaying her return home from a water point. The incident occurred about a month ago at the Akot cattle camp. Gum's brother, who was drunk at the time, pounced on her, leaving her with wounds on her buttocks and legs. She is currently receiving treatment at the Rumbek State Hospital in the Lakes State capital.
Gum recounted the incident to Radio Tamazuj from her hospital bed, stating that she tried to explain to her brother why she was late, but he refused to listen. Her condition worsened, and her family decided to transport her to Rumbek State Hospital, where she has been for the last three weeks. Gum expressed her struggles, saying she cannot sit and has to keep lying flat on her tummy or side due to the severe wounds on her buttocks and thighs.
David Dak, the medical officer in charge of the surgical ward at Rumbek State Hospital, confirmed Gum's admission three weeks ago with deep wounds on both buttocks and thighs. He stated that she is still undergoing treatment and being attended to by doctors with Africa CUAMM at the hospital. Dak added that Gum was weak and malnourished when admitted and will require a skin graft after 3 or 4 months, with an expected recovery time of eight months.
Peter Gum Ater, the director general at the state ministry of gender and social welfare, condemned the act of violence against Gum, stating that it is against the law and a violation of the rights of a child. He emphasized that there are peaceful means to discipline someone without involving violence. Ater also noted that many gender-based violence cases against girls and women result from early and forced marriages.
According to Ater, young girls are often forced into marriage, and when they refuse, they are beaten, sometimes resulting in death or injury. He urged communities to desist from such negative practices. Daniel Laat Kon, a civil society activist in Lakes State, confirmed the incident and described it as "very unfortunate," adding that such cases are becoming common in their community.
Kon emphasized the need for mindfulness in treating sisters, wives, and women in Lakes State, stating that beating someone to that stage is condemnable. He suggested that there are other ways to engage and discipline someone who has erred. The incident highlights the need for awareness and action against gender-based violence in South Sudan.
The case of Gum is a stark reminder of the violence and abuse faced by girls and women in South Sudan, particularly in rural areas. Efforts to address these issues and promote peaceful conflict resolution are essential to preventing such incidents in the future. The authorities and civil society organizations must work together to create a safe and supportive environment for all individuals, especially vulnerable groups like women and children.
Key points
- A 14-year-old girl was beaten by her brother in Rumbek North County, South Sudan, for delaying her return home from a water point and is receiving treatment for severe wounds.
