South Sudanese activist wins global award

A South Sudan women's rights activist has been named one of three winners of an award given by Amnesty International USA recognising women who ‘protect the dignity, liberties and lives of women and children in crisis regions.’ Riya Yuyada, executive director of Crown the Women-South Sudan, was honoured for her commitment to women's safety, equality and empowerment in South Sudan. A report on the allAfrica site notes that Crown the Women-South Sudan has carried out mentorships in 10 schools in Juba to promote education. Yuyada's group also links older South Sudanese women as mentors with younger females struggling to overcome challenges. Named for an Italian-born American human rights activist who spent years defending women unfairly persecuted by oppressive governments, the annual Ginetta Sagan Award comes with a grant of $20 000.