Marlin John Serefino | South Sudan Women's Research Network 

In this video, Marlin John Serefino unveils her profound research on traditional healing and spiritual protection among various communities in Wau, Western Bahr El-Ghazal State, South Sudan. Marlin speaks about her innovative approach using oral history interviews and focus group discussions to capture the nuanced experiences and voices of traditional healers, especially elderly women who play a crucial role in these practices.
Her study reveals the significant roles of traditional healers beyond health care-they are custodians of cultural heritage, mediators in community conflicts, and key figures in maintaining social harmony. Marlin’s findings challenge the negative perceptions of traditional healers and showcase their contributions as knowledge specialists who preserve cultural identity and facilitate local reconciliation processes.
This research is part of the South Sudan Women’s Research Network (SSWRN), an EU-funded initiative by the Rift Valley Institute aimed at empowering women researchers and incorporating local women’s voices into research that influences decision-making on critical social issues in South Sudan.
Stay tuned for more insights and the release of Marlin’s full research paper on this fascinating topic.
Learn more about SSWRN and our commitment to sustainable development and enhanced outcomes for women in South Sudan here: bit.ly/3uWuHP8
Video Credits:
Shot, edited & designed by Liz Mahiri, Communications Officer, RVI.