The International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers was commemorated in South Sudan’s Western Equatoria State with a friendly football match between peacekeepers and local women. This event aimed to raise awareness about de-escalating tensions and promoting peace in the conflict-prone area. Western Equatoria has been severely affected by years of military confrontations and intercommunal conflict.
James Severino, Acting Governor of Western Equatoria State, expressed gratitude to the peacekeepers, saying, “We have seen the presence of peacekeepers of over ten years. We worked together, we fought together, to ensure that relative peace comes to Tambura. Thank you, peacekeepers, that you managed to protect our civilians. We will stand with you to work for peace.” The peacekeepers are part of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), an initiative aimed at preventing the country from relapsing into civil war and building sustainable peace for free, fair, and credible elections.
UNMISS has been in South Sudan since its independence in 2011, with a mandate that includes protecting civilians, supporting peace consolidation, and fostering longer-term state building and economic development. The mission comprises over 18,000 peacekeepers from 75 countries, who serve alongside 1,446 police and 2,228 civilian workers. Emmanuel Dukundane, a Civil Affairs Officer with UNMISS, highlighted the collaboration between the peacekeepers and local communities, stating, “We had a lot of efforts together and collaboration in Tambura, greater Tambura, in the eastern counties of the State and even here in Yambio. We express our commitment to continue with this partnership and collaboration to ensure that we have sustainable peace in the State.”
During the event, participants paid their respects to the peacekeepers who lost their lives while serving with UNMISS. Wakila Charles, Speaker of the Western Equatoria Legislative Assembly, reflected on the sacrifices made by these peacekeepers, saying, “As the sacrifice, our brothers, our lovely brothers, have laid down their lives for the sake of peace. Ask yourself am I in peace in my home? As Members of Parliament, as a leader, we are representing our community. If the peace started with me, that means my home will be peaceful, my community, and the State.” Since UNMISS was founded, 145 peacekeepers have been killed on duty. Unfortunately, just recently, two UN peacekeepers were killed in a shooting incident at the UNMISS base in Malakal, highlighting the risks and challenges faced by these dedicated individuals.
The UNMISS plays a crucial role in promoting peace and stability in South Sudan, working closely with local communities and the government to build a more secure future. With the commitment of its personnel and the support of the local population, UNMISS continues to strive for sustainable peace in the region.