WERD is a non-profit organization established on 8 August 2007.

WERD is registered with The Relief and Rehabilitation Council (RRC), and The South Sudan NGO Forum.

WERD is the Brainchild of Elizabeth Mayiik, who had a vision for the new South Sudan that was taking shape after years of conflict. She saw the destitute state of children orphaned and women widowed by the war, and sought to shelter and empower them, giving them the hope and strength to begin rebuilding their young nation.

Our Vision
To mobilize women to discover their full potential resulting in peace, justice, and equality

Mission Statement
We commit to bringing all the women from the community to become instruments of peace, reconcile fragmented communities, participate in the development process and improve the livelihood and health of the society.

At the core of Women Empowerment for Reconciliation and Development (WERD) is the belief that sustainable peace, stability, and growth are achievable through empowering women, youth, and communities to become self-reliant, educated, and resilient.

Our approach centers on creating sustainable change by amplifying women’s voices, mobilizing local communities, and ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities.

  • Gender-Sensitive Programming
  • Rights-Based and Empowerment-Focused
  • Community-Driven and Participatory
  • Conflict-Sensitive and Peace-Oriented
  • Holistic and Intersectional Approach;

WERD’s organizational approach is based on a commitment to building a resilient South Sudan through programs that restore dignity, empower communities, and pave the way for long-term peace and social justice. By centering on the needs and voices of women and marginalized groups, we strive to create equitable systems and lasting change.

  • Foster peace, reconciliation, and social stability at the grassroots level.
  • Empower women through business skills and support to start sustainable enterprises.
  • Enhance livelihoods and food security through agricultural initiatives and improved market access.
  • Promote women’s rights and integration as vital members of society.
  • Enable youth to actively participate in national development efforts.
  • Provide civic education on justice, human rights, elections, and democratic participation.
  • Increase awareness about HIV/AIDS prevention and care.
  • Address and prevent Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and promote Sexual and Reproductive Health.
  • Improve Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene in communities.
  • Support adult literacy programs to enhance education and skills.
  • Protect children and young adults affected by emergencies.
  • Offer trauma healing services for those impacted by conflict, displacement, and GBV.
  • Enhance access to emergency and primary healthcare services within communities.