
Statement by Mr. Guang Cong, Deputy Special Representative-Political, UNMISS, at the 36th RJMEC Plenary
[ near verbatim] RJMEC Chair, Excellencies and distinguished guests, I thank the RJMEC for the opportunity to brief you today. Since we last met, I note the renewed interest by the transitional government for inclusion by…

In Jonglei State, UNMISS and other stakeholders came together to observe the International Day for the Elimination of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence, stressing the significance of safeguarding the rights of women, men, and children. Photo by Mach Samuel/UNMISS.
Stakeholders in Jonglei reaffirm pledge to end sexual violence
BOR – On the recent International Day for the Elimination of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), local authorities and civil society representatives in Jonglei State came…

UNMISS, local authorities meet to discuss restarting vital road repairs in Central Equatoria once the dry season begins. Photo by Taban Alfred/UNMISS.
UNMISS to resume rehabilitating Yei-Kajokeji Road in upcoming dry season
CENTRAL EQUATORIA – Engineers from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) are set to resume a critical road rehabilitation project in Yei, Lainya, and Kajokeji areas of Central Equatoria state, following a…

In Unity State and Ruweng Administrative Area, UNMISS organized a training for approximately 600 members of the South Sudan security forces, aimed to bridge possible gaps between different groups within them. Photo by Peter Bateman/UNMISS.
UNMISS initiative bridges gaps between South Sudan’s security forces
UNITY/RUWENG – "No matter which faction you are a part of, we are one South Sudanese. We must reunite to build our nation.” That was the message from Brigadier General Liep Bol Lam, a senior member of South Sudan’s security…

A recent #UNMISS peace concert in Tambura, Western Equatoria, featured top South Sudanese performer Bucha Rasta, who sang about reconciliation, nation-building and the need for unity. Photo by Denis Louro/UNMISS.
Tambura communities come together to resolve tensions at UNMISS-hosted peace concert
WESTERN EQUATORIA - The rhythm of drums, frenetic dancing, and joyous singing rang out across Tambura’s Freedom Square during a massive peace concert hosted by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan. One of the top acts…

The Lainya Police Community Relations Committee continues to hold grassroots dialogue, promoting peace, security and trust among uniformed personnel and communities, despite significant challenges. Photo by Taban Alfred/UNMISS.
Police Community Relations Committee in Lainya give hope to communities, despite challenges
CENTRAL EQUATORIA – “Earlier our people were mired in repeated conflict cycles, which created a fear of uniformed personnel among civilians,” reminisces retired Bishop Elioba Lokuru, Chair of the Police Community Relations…

Senior military officers from the country's main armed forces met in Wau to discuss how best to function together in a single national army. Photo: Roseline Nzelle Nkwelle/UNMISS
Security dialogue in Wau: Forces agree that single army must be united and work as one
WESTERN BAHR EL GHAZAL - With elections, including the tensions they may cause, set to take place in December, the creation of one national army is essential. Since it will consist of personnel previously belonging to…

Local chiefs in Lainya County have expressed concern about insufficient resources in the justice sector. Photo: Taban Geofrey Koma Alfred/UNMISS
Missing links in Lainya County’s chain of justice
CENTRAL EQUATORIA – Police stations, courts, judges, and prisons are all necessities for the rule of law to work its magic. Unfortunately, all of these judicial components are missing or far too few in Lainya County, south of…

In Upper Nile State, some 40 members of the electoral commission, law enforcement groups, and defense forces received two days of training on upholding human rights during the electoral process. Photo by Samson Liberty/UNMISS.
Civil and military leaders trained on importance of respecting human rights ahead of elections
UPPER NILE - Preparations are crucial for South Sudan's upcoming general elections, which are less than six months away. The UN family, including the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), plays a key role during…

In Lakes state, UNMISS supported a wide range of stakeholders to hold productive discussions on fully participating in South Sudan’s political landscape. Photo by James Mawien/UNMISS.
Call for political and civic space by participants dominates political forum in Rumbek
LAKES – “During the civil wars of 2013 and 2016, we never imagined a time would come when we could be free to assemble and discuss the future of our nation without fear,” says Stephen Mathiang Deng, Minister for Cabinet…

In Western Equatoria, two newly constructed bridges are set to connect people, improve livelihoods, and facilitate the work of peacekeepers and humanitarians. Photo by Phillip Mbugo/UNMISS.
UNMISS-funded bridges connect communities in Mundri West County with markets and services
WESTERN EQUATORIA – Residents along the rivers Turubwa and Bundri in Mundri West County are rejoicing, and why would they not? Thanks to two new bridges, they are no longer forced to cross sometimes flooded overpasses on foot…

Statement by Nicholas Haysom, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS, on South Sudan's 13th Independence Day
JUBA - On the 13 th anniversary of South Sudan’s independence, I’d like to assure you of the UN family’s continued support to this country’s people and leaders as you navigate a complex path to peace and democratic transition…