The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and local host authorities have strongly reaffirmed their commitment to civilian protection and regional security. This renewed UNMISS partnership in South Sudan was highlighted during the first Joint Verification and Monitoring Mechanism (JVMM) meeting chaired by Anita Kiki Gbeho, the recently appointed Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, in Juba.
The JVMM serves as a vital coordination platform involving the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and UN peacekeepers. The forum is designed to address complex operational hurdles, ease the movement of UN personnel, and formulate joint responses to security issues across the nation. Regular engagements allow both parties to manage conflict zones and coordinate humanitarian access. For those tracking broader political developments across the continent, strengthening the UNMISS partnership in South Sudan is viewed as essential for delivering lifesaving assistance and building long-term mutual trust.
The latest high-level meeting gathered senior SSPDF division commanders and UN leadership. Addressing the room, SRSG Gbeho emphasized that the core foundation of the UNMISS partnership in South Sudan is transparency and dedicated service to the people. “One, we are partners and, I want to believe, partners of choice: in commitment, in purpose and, most importantly, in service of the people of South Sudan,” she stated. She noted that open communication prevents misunderstandings and that institutional cooperation ultimately saves lives and builds a durable peace.
A major operational challenge discussed at the meeting was the restriction of movement at illegal checkpoints, particularly in areas plagued by intercommunal violence. Denials of access severely hamper the Mission’s ability to protect vulnerable communities, affecting everything from emergency medical evacuations to standard regional travel arrangements for humanitarian staff. In response, Lieutenant General Abud Thiongkhol urged military commanders to eliminate unauthorized checkpoints and taxation, noting that interfering with allied partners is unacceptable. As frequently reported on the main African news portal, maintaining an unrestricted UNMISS partnership in South Sudan remains critical to navigating the country’s evolving security landscape and ensuring lasting stability.
