WES government seeks actual data on single mothers as numbers surge

Authorities say domestic violence, financial mismanagement, and marital conflicts are possible drivers of family breakdown.

By Emmanuel Mandella

The government of Western Equatoria State has announced plans to conduct research into the growing number of single mothers in the state, with authorities citing domestic violence, financial mismanagement, and marital conflicts as possible drivers of family breakdown.

The directive was issued by the Deputy Governor, Justin Joseph Marona, during the commemoration of International Women’s Day at Yambio Freedom Square in Yambio.

Marona instructed the Western Equatoria State Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare, working together with United Nations-affiliated agencies operating in the state, to undertake a detailed study to understand the root causes behind the increasing number of single-parent households.

According to the Deputy Governor, the state government must first understand the underlying causes of the trend before rolling out policies or assistance programs aimed at supporting single mothers.

He cautioned that introducing support initiatives without proper research could unintentionally worsen family instability.

“The government cannot just declare support for single mothers without first understanding the root causes. This may lead to the disintegration of some families if not properly studied,” Marona said.

He explained that poorly designed interventions could encourage some couples to separate in order to access benefits, which could undermine the stability of families across the state.

The proposed research, he said, will guide policymakers in developing programs that address the real challenges faced by women raising children alone while also protecting family unity.

During his address, Marona pointed to several social challenges that may be contributing to the increase in single mothers, including domestic violence, lack of forgiveness within marriages, financial disagreements, and misunderstandings between couples.

He emphasized that these issues are often at the center of family disputes that eventually lead to separation or abandonment.

“Respect in marriage should be vice versa. Men should respect their wives, and women should respect their husbands because respect is very important in a family,” he said.

The Deputy Governor stressed that stable families are a cornerstone of community development and urged couples to promote mutual respect and understanding in their relationships.

The Deputy Governor’s remarks came following continued calls by the Speaker of the state’s Transitional Legislative Assembly, Ann Tuna Richard, who has been advocating for increased support for single mothers across Western Equatoria.

Her advocacy has drawn attention to the social and economic challenges faced by women who raise children without partners, including difficulties in accessing income, education, and healthcare.

However, Marona said that while the government recognizes the need to support vulnerable women, such interventions must be informed by reliable data and a deeper understanding of the underlying causes.

The Deputy Governor said the planned research will provide critical information to guide government policies and development programs targeting families and women.

Authorities believe that understanding the social dynamics behind the rise in single mothers will help shape more effective policies that strengthen families while also supporting women who are already raising children on their own.

Marona concluded by calling on community leaders, religious institutions, and development partners to support efforts aimed at promoting peaceful families and social stability in the state.

“With a proper understanding of the causes, the government will be in a better position to design solutions that protect families and support mothers who are facing real challenges,” he said.

Utilities

“The government cannot just declare support for single mothers without first understanding the root causes. This may lead to the disintegration of some families if not properly studied,” Western Equatoria State Deputy Governor, Justin Joseph Marona, said.