Building resilience and protection: joint efforts create conditions for durable solutions to take hold

UPPER NILE - Residents of Hai Matar in Malakal, Upper Nile, are rebuilding their lives, as the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), UN Agencies, Funds and Programmes, humanitarian partners, and government authorities work together to create the conditions to enable these formerly displaced families and returnees to live in safety and dignity.

A visiting team from the UN family and the Relief and Rehabilitation Commission was on the ground to assess progress under the Durable Solutions Strategy and identify the challenges that communities continue to face on their path beyond displacement.

For many residents, access to basic services remains the foundation of a sustainable future.

Women's representative Viviana Akol Dak spoke candidly about the urgent needs of families in the community during the visit.

"Our children are not going to school because the only primary school in Hai Matar was destroyed during the conflict," she said. "Many families cannot afford school fees in town, leaving children without access to education."

Ms. Dak also described the daily hardship women face in securing water for their households. "You can see women queuing for water every day. The supply is not enough for families, and we do not have a primary healthcare center or hospital here," she added.

The concerns raised by community members underscore the connection between services and long-term stability. Access to education, healthcare, water, and other essential services reduces vulnerabilities, strengthens resilience, and helps families rebuild their lives.

Launched in Upper Nile in 2024, the Durable Solutions Strategy and accompanying Action Plan provide a roadmap for supporting conflict-affected communities as they transition toward long-term recovery and, once again, integrate fully into society. The initiative addresses both immediate protection needs and the structural barriers that hinder sustainable reintegration.

Community leader Kimo Adiang welcomed the progress made and called for continued investment in infrastructure and public services. "We hope to have the water system fully operational, drainage cleared, and support such as a police post and market facilities to enhance safe movement, livelihoods, and community cohesion," he said.

For his part, Upper Nile State Governor General James Koang Chuol reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting returnees and displaced communities. "This initiative assists people in becoming self-reliant and improving their quality of life. The Government will uphold its role in protecting civilians and supporting communities as they settle and rebuild."

UNMISS Head of Integrated Office Laila Bourhil stressed that for durable solutions to take hold, a collective effort is needed, one that brings together communities, government institutions, humanitarian actors, and development partners.

"What is important is that we are coming together to make things better. We have heard mothers speak about their children's needs. Shelter alone is not enough. Families need schools, healthcare, water, and opportunities to build a future. And communities themselves have a vital role in shaping solutions that respond to their priorities."

Ms. Bourhil also emphasized that protecting civilians extends well beyond physical security. "We will continue engaging with the government and partners to identify how we can best support these communities, strengthen social cohesion, and build resilience against future shocks," she said.

While challenges remain, the visit reaffirmed a shared commitment among all partners to sustain momentum and close the gaps standing between displacement and a durable, dignified future for the people of Hai Matar.

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By Samson Liberty