The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) is working on building and rehabilitating thousands of kilometers of roads, culverts, and other essential infrastructure. This is being done to improve security, boost economic activity, enhance community wellbeing, and support peacebuilding.
Plans for this year include repairing 2,083 kilometers of roads across the country, with specific focus on Warrap, Western Equatoria, Jonglei, Lakes State, Upper Nile, and Eastern Equatoria.
Nicholas Haysom, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS, stated that this work will bring numerous benefits for various stakeholders including local authorities, law enforcement, traders, business owners, and communities. It will enhance safe travel, increase economic activity, ensure humanitarian aid reaches those in need, and facilitate community connections to resolve disputes and build peace.
While infrastructure projects are the responsibility of the government, UNMISS recognizes the importance of supporting this work in coordination with national and state authorities as part of its mandate to protect civilians and build durable peace.
UNMISS acknowledges that road work during the dry season might create challenges such as increased dust while the work is ongoing. However, they emphasize the long-term benefits for all South Sudanese outweigh the temporary inconveniences.
Furthermore, the Mission is providing support to the Transitional Security Arrangements and peace conferences, as well as improving the wellbeing of communities through Quick Impact projects, strengthening the justice system, and facilitating dialogue.
Overall, these initiatives demonstrate UNMISS’s deep commitment to supporting the people and leaders of South Sudan, across the full spectrum of politics and peace building, improving security, and enhancing the living experience of the communities they serve.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).