13 November 2012 - The Upper Nile government had assured her that plans were in place to prevent conflicts in the state with the onset of the dry season, UNMISS head Hilde F. Johnson said today in the capital Malakal.

Speaking to journalists as she concluded a two-day visit to the state, Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) Johnson said she had discussed with the government's its preparedness to manage potential conflicts.

"It was important for me to come here and discuss with the government what their plans are, how they are working on preparations for prevention of conflicts," Ms. Johnson said. "The governor assured me that they are already working on that.

"During her visit, the SRSG met with the Governor and Council of Ministers, Sudan People's Liberation Commanders, representatives of civil society organizations and UN agencies.

Ms. Johnson also traveled to Nasser County, where she discussed tension between the Lou and the Jikany Nuer communities and preventing new violence from erupting with County Commissioner Dak Tap Choul.