UNMISS to Establish Temporary Humanitarian Base in Yei

(JUBA) – The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), Central and Eastern Equatoria State sub office has announced plans to re-consider establishing a temporary humanitarian base in Yei River County to support Ebola preparedness and strengthen community peacebuilding initiatives.

The announcement was made by the Head of the UNMISS Central and Eastern Equatoria State Field Office, Christopher Muchiri Murenga, during a courtesy meeting with Central Equatoria State Governor Augustino Jadalla on Tuesday.

According to Murenga, the temporary base will enhance humanitarian response efforts in Yei while supporting ongoing peacebuilding activities within local communities.

During the meeting, the UNMISS delegation also outlined plans to strengthen cooperation with the Juba City Council and Juba County on waste management and recycling initiatives. The efforts will particularly focus on addressing drainage blockages caused by plastic waste, which continue to affect sanitation and environmental conditions.

UNMISS further highlighted its community peace awareness programmes involving chiefs, elders, women, and youth, aimed at improving information sharing and promoting dialogue at the grassroots level.

Discussions also covered plans to construct police posts in areas where additional security infrastructure is needed to improve community safety and support law enforcement services.

The meeting reviewed ongoing peace mediation efforts among communities, including initiatives to facilitate the return of cattle and strengthen the work of local peace committees in resolving disputes and promoting reconciliation.

Governor Jadalla commended UNMISS and the wider United Nations system for their continued support to the people of Central Equatoria State. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to facilitating the work of humanitarian and development partners across the state.

The governor stressed that improving security, access to basic services, and livelihood opportunities remains essential for creating conditions that will enable refugees and displaced persons to return home and rebuild their lives.

Jadalla also raised concerns over cattle grazing on farmland, describing it as a major challenge affecting farmers’ livelihoods. He pledged continued support for reconciliation initiatives aimed at enhancing stability, reducing tensions and preventing further displacement within affected communities.