Celebrations to mark the 72^nd anniversary of the United Nations began in Wau with a colourful and cheerful morning procession through the town in the north-west of the country.

United Nations personnel joined with local police and students from the three secondary schools in Wau to walk in unity from the center of town to a special celebration at the nearby stadium. They enjoyed cultural performances by Chinese peacekeepers serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) as well as a local drama group. Students also took part in a quiz testing their knowledge about the United Nations, which was first formed in 1945 with just 51 member states. Today there are 193 members, including South Sudan, the UN’s youngest member.

The Acting Head of Field Office for UNMISS in Wau, Mustapha Tejan-Kella, spoke about the importance of the UN and the people of South Sudan working side-by-side to build a future together. He reaffirmed the commitment of the UN to supporting peace and development in the country.  

The Deputy Governor of Wau, Dominic Emilio Bafuka, acknowledged the support of UN in assisting the people of South Sudan during the long struggle prior to the country winning independence in 2011.

“It is still continuing to help us to solve the internal problems which we are facing now. I am standing here before you today to thank the UN Mission in Wau for all the services and support that they are rendering to us.”

UN Day celebrations will continue all week with a sports tournament for personnel located at the UN base in Wau.