24 September 2013- In line with the UN Security Council Resolution 2109, which highlights the need to enhance the host community's awareness and understanding of the role of UNMISS, an integrated team in Warrap State today kicked off an outreach campaign in Twic County.

More than 80 civil society representatives in Twic County, Warrap State, attended the event, at which the UNMISS team explained the mission's mandate and discussed the 2011 Status of Forces Agreement with the South Sudanese government.

Leading the team, the UNMISS State Coordinator Abraham Onifade said the mission was working with other UN agencies and development partners to support South Sudan in areas like democracy, rule of law, human rights, consolidation of peace and security as well as protection of civilians.

"UNMISS' approach of decentralization from national to state and county levels is consistent with the Transitional Constitution of South Sudan," he said. "Indeed, the community portal we are using today for this workshop was part of UNMISS' support at the county level."

Appreciating the support already given, the Twic County Commissioner Biar Biar said there was need for more assistance in capacity building of the local population, especially women.

In the coming weeks the UNMISS integrated team will conduct similar events in all six counties of the state.