Charles K. Mark, Juba – The United Nations Mission in South Sudan has urged the government of South Sudan to embark on initiatives that allow communities to find ways to reduce conflict.
Nicolas Haysom the Head of the UNMISS and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General said such initiatives foster inclusive economic growth. This is because it will promote productive activities that generate livelihoods facilitating the removal of incentives of conflict, and contributing to the reconstruction and rebuilding of communities according to him.
“I call for the full implementation of the suite of resolutions from the 2022 National Livestock Conference on Cattle- and Migration-Related Conflicts, which we think provided an excellent blueprint for national cooperation on longer-term solutions for this real and serious conflict driver,” said Haysom.
He acknowledged it may not be easy to address some of the challenges and it will require coordinated intervention from the national and subnational levels.
“I reaffirm the support of UNMISS to the Transitional Government of National Unity as it carries out its responsibility to protect its civilians in South Sudan,” said Hayshom.
He spoke to the Governors and Chief Administrator present at the 7th Governors Forum about his concerns about the continued proliferation of arms.
“Some of you were able to implement partial disarmament in your states in line with the recommendations you had issued at the last meeting in November 2022,” said Hayshom.
He said the Mission supports the calls for state and national authorities to undertake a comprehensive national program for peaceful disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration. He added that the Mission has more in store to deliver in line with its mandate of protection.
“I am pleased to share that in 2024, UNMISS will be implementing 70 quick impact projects across the 10 states to support the protection of citizens as well as the delivery of public services and local infrastructure,” said Hayshom.
He said completing the final leg of South Sudan’s transitional period requires strong partnerships between the national and subnational levels of government.