In order to rebuild confidence between the internally displaced persons and the UNMISS, the Head of Field Office, Military contingents, and UNPOL representatives with support from USAID/VISTAS, organized a three day conference.  The event involved over 300 participants from various POC committees including youth, community watch groups, women’s groups, religious and Peace and Security Council members.

Focus of the event concentrated on UNMISS Mandate, POC site Rule and Regulations, and also underscored protection of civilians, with regards to the role of Military, UN Police, and Formed Protection Units (FPUs).   In addition, substantive sections of UNMISS such as Civil Affairs, Gender, and the Relief, Reintegration and Protection Unit gave an overview of their respective units role and it’s daily working collaboration with the IDPs.

During the three days, a number of participants made strong statements and all agreed on the important of maintaining a peaceful coexistence between IDPs and peacekeepers.  

“Is our soul responsibility as internally displaced person to maintain order within the parameters of our obligations as leaders to urge peaceful coexistence among ourselves and respect of peace keepers by acknowledging their efforts day and night to ensure and guard of safety” Said by Chairman for Peace and Security council Mathew Chuol Jock 

Women representatives of the IDP community were keen to see the three day discussion turn into action points, stating “actions speaks louder than talks so I am urging every one of us, to respect ground rules which are set by UNMISS in order for us to live in harmony among ourselves within the camp by not violating the regulations plus our commitment as community to stand and help the vulnerable and people with disabilities among us” said. Rachel Mayik, a representative from the women’s group.

In her closing remarks the Malakal Head of Field Office thanked organizers of the conference and described the event as a milestone forward  for re- building a solid confidence between UNMISS and IDPs

The conference was attended by a nearly three hundred participants from various POC committees includes Youth, community watch groups, women ,religious leaders and Peace and security council members.

The day ended with a vibrant cultural show with dancing from IDPs jointly with UNMISS members.