By Taban Gabriel
King News 3rd September Juba-The United Nations Development Program (UNDP), with support from the Japanese government, inaugurated a Special Protection Police Unit (SPU) in Obbo Payam of Magwi County, Eastern Equatoria State, on Saturday, August 31st, according to a press release by UNDP.
“in a vital initiative to promote peace and co-existence in South Sudan, the United Nations Development Program is working alongside the government of South Sudan and Key national institutions, including the State Ministry of Local Government, South Sudan Police Service and the Ministry of Peacebuilding” the press statement reads.
The unit’s launch aims to empower institutions and communities in Magwi County by ensuring the safe return and integration of displaced populations with host communities.
The facility seeks to provide practical tools for local development planning and budgeting.
Additionally, the initiative intends to engage traditional leaders to reinforce community ownership and ensure sustainability.
Some components of the project include enhancing the safety and rights of citizens through improved access to justice, particularly for vulnerable groups and survivors of sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV).
The launch of the unit drew a number of key officials from the State government, UNDP, and the Japanese Embassy in South Sudan.
In his remarks, the Ambassador of Japan to South Sudan, Toshio Odagiri, thanked UNDP for the successful completion of the ‘Multipurpose Community Center” and urged the leaders of the community to make the best use of the facility “to provide necessary support and resources to the people in need.”
Ambassador Tossio further acknowledged the effort of the police, social workers, and community members in supporting SGBV
UNDP Resident Representative Dr. Mohamed Abchir recognized the “Unwavering collaboration and support” from the government of Eastern Equatoria and the “commitment” from Japan to promote peace and development in South Sudan.
Dr. Mohamed reiterated UNDP’s commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at consolidating peace, reducing the humanitarian footprint, and supporting sustainable development in Eastern Equatoria State.
“The presence of an SPU creates a link between the police and local communities in combatting gender-based violence and responding to the needs of survivors, such as referral mechanisms for protection, legal psycho-social support, and medical. These are important protection measures to create a conducive environment for the return and social integration of vulnerable groups,” part of his speech reads.
The governor of Eastern Equatoria State, Luis Lobong Lojore, graced the launch of the SPU.
The UNDP is a leading UN agency in South Sudan that is pivotal in the country’s development efforts. It has established Special Protection Units throughout South Sudan and was instrumental in pioneering the Genda Based Violence (GBV) and Juvenile Court in Juba. These initiatives are currently facilitating the adjudication of cases related to gender-based violence (GBV) and juvenile justice.