
In Wau, a landmark forum hosted by UNMISS brought together state authorities, political parties, high-ranking security officials and civil society to discuss shared peace and security goals, including widespread civic engagement, ahead of South Sudan's first national elections next December. Photo by Gregorio Cunha/UNMISS
In Wau, political parties and security actors pledge to collaborate in creating inclusive civic and political space before elections
WESTERN BAHR EL GHAZAL: As a mere 14 months remain for South Sudan to complete its long delayed democratic transition by holding the country’s first-ever national elections, ensuring widespread participation in the peace…

There was lots of joy on display in Wau when UNMISS handed over a new one-stop centre where survivors of sexual and other gender-based violence will receive assistance. Photo: Michael Wondi/UNMISS
UNMISS hands over one-stop centre facility to assist Wau survivors of gender-based violence
WESTERN BAHR EL GHAZAL – Surviving sexual or other gender-based violence is the tragic reality of all-too-many (mostly) girls and women in South Sudan. Having access to a single place to handle the aftermath of the trauma and…

At a two-day workshop in Nimule, Eastern Equatoria, 40 community leaders and civil society representatives were sensitized on key transitional justice provisions contained within the Revitalized Peace Agreement. Photo by Moses Yakudu/UNMISS
Grassroot leaders, civil society in Nimule call on human rights partners to raise awareness on reparations for conflict survivors
EASTERN EQUATORIA - “We have lived our entire lives without knowing much about the peace process in our country. We need more sensitization at the grassroots, especially for youth, women, and traditional leaders,” said Koma…

In Malakal, an all-female UNMISS patrol discussed key issues and challenges with a cross-section of local women from different communities. Photo by Samson Liberty/UNMISS
First women-led UNMISS patrol in Malakal wins hearts and minds
UPPER NILE – As South Sudan approaches its first post-independence elections, ensuring widespread civic engagement, especially for those community members who typically do not often get equal chances to be involved in this…

Festive parliamentarians cutting the ribbon to inaugurate Jonglei's new and UNMISS-funded legislative assembly hall in Bor. Photos by Mach Samuel, UNMISS.
Increased political space in Jonglei as UNMISS hands over new state legislative assembly hall
BOR- The completion and handover of a new and significantly bigger assembly hall means that members of Jonglei State’s parliament no longer have to involuntarily rub shoulders with each other. The construction of the new…

Committed UNMISS peacekeepers recently visited remote Timsaha, where some 5,000 community members reside peacefully. Their aim: To build confidence before this tranquil border settlement faces an influx of returnees fleeing the Sudan crisis. Photo by Roseline Nzelle Nkwelle/UNMISS.
An UNMISS patrol team receives warm welcome in remote Timsaha
WESTERN BAHR EL GHAZAL – Since conflict erupted in South Sudan’s northern neighbour, Sudan, like most shared border locations between the two countries, Raja county in Western Bahr El Ghazal, has been an entry point for…

Statement by the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General Nicholas Haysom United Nations Day 2023
[Near Verbatim] Honourable Mary Nawai Martin Nawai, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs of the Republic of South Sudan and Honourable Stephen Par, Minister of Peace Building. Ambassadors, Heads of Missions, and members of the…

In Malakal, an UNMISS-funded and newly constructed police post is expected to improve security and boosting the rule of law in and around the protection site for internally displaced persons. Photo by Samson Liberty/UNMISS.
UNMISS-funded police post in Malakal aims to improve security in and around protection site
UPPER NILE – Like in any other (over)crowded place, moments of frustration and irritation are bound to sometimes lead to altercations and crime within the UN protection of civilians site in Malakal as well. A strategically…

During a spirited and convivial UN Day commemoration in Wau, children from different schools stole the show by advocating for peace, development and, of course, education for all. Photo by Roseline Nzelle Nkwelle/UNMISS
In Wau, children speak about the need for sustained peace and development
WESTERN BAHR EL GHAZAL - Yesterday, the bright and sunny skies of Wau, Western Bahr El Ghazal’s capital, were opportune. People from all walks of life came together for a special occasion: Marking 12 years since South Sudan…

In Western Bahr El Ghazal, UNMISS and FAO are supporting the national prison system to become self-reliant in terms of its food supply through an innovative pilot project that teaches short-term inmates scientific agricultural practices at a prison farm in Thuro Majok, a locality on the outskirts of the state capital, Wau. Photo by Roseline Nzelle Nkwelle/UNMISS.
Innovative ‘green’ project by UNMISS and FAO partner boosts food security, skills among prisoners
WESTERN BAHR EL GHAZAL – With severe climate shocks, including severe floods and prolonged dry spells, the world’s newest nation, South Sudan, has been impacted by shortfalls in food production. The situation is exacerbated…

Debate and discussion are key for a democracy to thrive. As part of country-wide efforts to promote civic engagement, especially by young South Sudanese, UNMISS is hosting university debates on vital issues that the world's newest nation is facing, such as widespread involvement in drafting a permanent constitution; gender equality, especially when it comes to political participation, and, of course, ensuring informed voters can express their will freely in South Sudan's first post-independence elections slated for next December. Photo by Alahayi Nemaya/UNMISS
Inter-university debate winners win more than a seat at the national level, get fully sponsored education
WESTERN BAHR EL GHAZAL - With the world’s youngest nation gearing to usher in its long delayed democratic transition through its first post-independence elections in December next year, the United Nations Mission in South…

An UNMISS-funded maternity ward has given hope to Magwi residents. Since the new center began operations, committed medical staff have given prenatal care to some 340 women plus ensured over 300 safe deliveries. Photo by Okello James/UNMISS
Hope floats in Magwi following an UNMISS handover of a fully-equipped maternity
EASTERN EQUATORIA – With South Sudan’s first post-independence elections slated for next December, there is pressing need for women to fully participate in decision-making. However, years of unceasing conflict have affected…