27 December 2013 - Businesses were open and all was peaceful in Western Equatoria during the Christmas season, despite violent conflicts in other South Sudanese states.

UNMISS and most other UN agencies in the state have continued their activities. The mission has continued to visit government counterparts to monitor and advise where necessary.

Government offices and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) resumed work today after Christmas festivities, which included cultural programmes of singing and dancing.

Conflicts and violence were sparked in several South Sudanese states after shooting broke out in the capital Juba on 15 December between members of the presidential guard.

Speaking to hundreds of people in St. Mary Catholic Parish in Yambio on 22 December, Western Equatoria Governor Col. Bangasi Joseph Bakosoro lifted a state curfew imposed a day after violence broke out in Juba.

“I have decided to lift the curfew so that people could enjoy Christmas without fear, but I am urging everybody to be security conscious,” Col. Bakosoro said.

The governor continued to speak each day at youth gatherings and in churches, preaching peace messages, calling for unity among South Sudanese and urging people to keep insecurity out of the state.

While peaceful, the ongoing crisis in other areas has led to significantly higher prices for market commodities in Western Equatoria as well as an influx of people fleeing fighting in Juba or visiting families in the state.

Insecurity in other parts of the country has also temporarily halted UNMISS outreach programmes and capacity building workshops.

UNMISS Western Equatoria State Coordinator Ataklti Hailu applauded peace in the state. He said he was in contact with state authorities at all times and that all UNMISS, UN agency and NGO staff were safe.