CENTRAL EQUATORIA – A three-day forum for mayors and commissioners, led by authorities from South Sudan’s Central Equatoria state concluded with actionable resolutions and recommendations to boost local governance.

Supported by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), the workshop aimed to create the conditions for sustainable peace and development to take hold by building on the outcomes of the 8^th Governors’ Forum, which took place last year.

Participating authorities included county commissioners, the Mayor of Juba City Council, the Administrator of Wonduruba payam [administrative division], executive chiefs, state officials, and representatives from the UN Peacekeeping mission.

Critical resolutions agreed upon by all included prioritizing the unification of forces, establishing comprehensive early warning and response systems to mitigate conflict, and initiating grassroots peace initiatives for armed holdout groups.

Additional recommendations underscored the urgent need to deploy government officers where their presence is needed the most, enhancing awareness and training on human rights, and addressing gaps in essential services.

“Local governance is the backbone of effective government. It translates policies into actions, delivering services and tangible governance to our people," asserted Augustino Jadalla Kamilo Wani, Governor, Central Equatoria.

“Our policies at the county level must reflect the broader objectives of peacebuilding, stability, and socio-economic development,” he added.

Governor Wani highlighted major challenges faced by Central Equatoria, including inconsistencies in laws, resource shortages, and security issues with cattle herders. He further stressed the need for better cooperation among government agencies, communities, and at the county-level.

For her part, Njoki Kinyajui, Head of the UNMISS Field Office in the state, highlighted the importance of dialogue in effectively addressing challenges.

Ms. Kinyajui’s views were echoed by civil society representative, Edmond Yakani, Executive Director, Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO). “Our responsibility is to bring our people together, engage in meaningful dialogue, and resolve conflicts," he said.

The event concluded with Governor Wani announcing 25 key resolutions and establishing a monitoring committee to ensure accountability through regular progress reports.

UNMISS continues to champion such locally led peace initiatives by providing technical and capacity-building assistance, protecting civilians and supporting South Sudan's peace process.