Nicholas Haysom, Special Representative of the Secretary General and Head of the UN Peacekeeping mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) | Credit | Daniel Garang Deng/TRC
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) is ramping up efforts to
reduce tensions, prevent conflict, and promote peaceful coexistence in Tambura,
Western Equatoria, following a series of violent incidents that have forced
thousands of residents to flee their homes.
According to a statement obtained by The Radio Community, four civilians
were killed, and two others injured by unidentified gunmen in Tambura on 25
October 2024.
The statement also mentioned several other alarming incidents, including an
arson attack on the home of a female staff member near the County
Commissioner’s residence on 1 November 2024.
These incidents are occurring amidst unverified reports of armed group
mobilization, further heightening fear and tension within the local
communities.
As a result, the number of displaced individuals seeking refuge at a site
adjacent to the UNMISS temporary operating base in Tambura has nearly tripled,
surging from around 3,700 to over 10,500 people.
Nicholas Haysom, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and
Head of UNMISS says UNMISS has increased its peacekeeping patrols in Tambura,
both day and night.
The mission had previously strengthened its protective presence by deploying
additional troops to Tambura and Yambio following the outbreak of conflict in
April 2024, and these forces remain active.
UNMISS is actively engaging with traditional and community leaders, as well
as political and security stakeholders at local, state, and national levels.
Additionally, UNMISS-operated Radio Miraya has expanded its transmission
capabilities in Ezo and is extending coverage to Nagero to encourage broader
participation in peacebuilding efforts.
"Communities in Tambura and across the state continue to suffer from
the devastating effects of intercommunal conflict, resulting in loss of life,
widespread property destruction, and mass displacement, " said Nicholas
Haysom
He further called on all stakeholders, regardless of their affiliations, to
collaborate in easing tensions and seeking peaceful resolutions, emphasizing
the need for grassroots efforts to foster peaceful coexistence.
"By working together, we can ensure that people live without fear,
safely engage in their livelihoods, and pursue development opportunities that
will benefit the entire region," Haysom urged.
