Morobo Commissioner Joins Yei UNMISS Handover

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – The Commissioner of Morobo County, Hon Charles Data Bullen, on Tuesday joined commissioners from Lainya, Kajokeji and Yei River counties at the United Nations Mission in South Sudan field site in Yei for the official handover of the facility to government authorities. The event followed the closure of UNMISS field level activities in the area.

The ceremony brought together a wide range of participants, including youth representatives, civil society groups, non governmental organisations, traditional leaders and women groups. The Minister of Peace Building for Central Equatoria State, Hon Jacob Aligo, attended as the guest of honour, reflecting the importance of the transition for local administration and peace efforts in South Sudan.

The handover marked the end of UNMISS field operations in Greater Yei, where the mission has worked for nearly two decades. During this period, UNMISS supported civilian protection, community dialogue and relative stability at times of conflict and political change in Central Equatoria State.

Speaking on behalf of local communities, the commissioners of Greater Yei expressed appreciation for the long presence of UNMISS and its role in supporting peace and security. They noted that cooperation between the mission and county authorities had helped reduce tensions and improve trust among communities.

The Head of the UNMISS field site in Yei, Mr Mugo, acknowledged the contribution of local partners. He said civil society groups, county officials and traditional leaders played an important role in the success of UNMISS activities through cooperation and shared responsibility.

The UNMISS Head of Mission for Central Equatoria State, Madame Njoki Kinyanju, assured residents that the closure of the Yei field site does not signal an end to UN support. She explained that the move is part of a plan to centralise operations at the state level while continuing to implement the UNMISS mandate across Greater Yei and the wider state.

She added that UNMISS would continue to work with government institutions and communities to support peace, stability and protection of civilians in South Sudan, even as its operational structure changes.

The ceremony concluded with the signing of official handover documents. The Central Equatoria State government was represented by Hon Jacob Aligo, while UNMISS was represented by Madame Njoki Kinyanju, formally transferring responsibility for the site.

Counties represented at the ceremony